Back injuries are among the most common and most serious outcomes of car crashes, falls, and workplace accidents. Even a “minor” back injury can lead to months or years of pain, reduced mobility, and expensive treatment. In California, accident victims may be entitled to compensation if another party’s negligence caused their injuries. Here are the 10 most common back injuries caused by accidents.

1. Herniated Discs

Discs between the vertebrae can slip or rupture during a collision, causing severe pain, numbness, or weakness.
Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk

2. Bulging Discs

Unlike herniation, a bulging disc doesn’t rupture but protrudes outward, pressing on nerves and causing chronic discomfort.

3. Spinal Fractures

High-impact crashes can cause vertebrae to break or collapse, sometimes requiring surgery and long recovery.
Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/spinal-fractures

4. Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the spinal cord may result in partial or complete paralysis. These are among the most catastrophic and costly injuries.
Source: https://www.nscisc.uab.edu/

5. Sprains and Strains

Soft tissue injuries from overstretching ligaments or muscles can cause ongoing back pain and limited mobility.

6. Whiplash-Related Back Pain

Often associated with neck injuries, whiplash can also strain the upper and lower back.

7. Spondylolisthesis

This occurs when one vertebra slips out of place onto the bone below it, often causing severe nerve compression.

8. Nerve Compression (Pinched Nerves)

Accidents can compress spinal nerves, leading to shooting pain, tingling, or loss of function.

9. Degenerative Disc Disease (Accelerated by Trauma)

While often age-related, trauma from an accident can speed up disc degeneration, leading to chronic back issues.

10. Chronic Back Pain Syndrome

Even without visible fractures, back injuries can lead to long-term pain disorders that disrupt work and daily life.

Why Back Injuries Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Back injuries often require:

• MRIs, X-rays, and CT scans
• Physical therapy
• Pain management or injections
• Surgery (including spinal fusion or disc replacement)

The cost of treatment can be enormous and insurance companies often try to minimize claims. That’s why having an experienced attorney is critical.

At Hillstone Law, we represent back injury victims across California, fighting for compensation that covers medical bills, lost wages, long-term care, and pain and suffering.

Free Consultation

If you’ve suffered a back injury in an accident, call Hillstone Law today for a free consultation.