In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, someone may experience restricted mobility or pain in the back or neck. In the event of any immediate back or neck pain, it is advisable to go to the emergency room for radiology work, including x-rays, MRIs or a CT scan. For others, severe back pain may not develop for several hours after the crash. Due to the possibility of delayed symptoms with certain back injuries, seeking the advice of a medical professional is essential to your well-being and the potential success of your case. Here are the most common symptoms of back injuries: Pain Stiffness Headaches Muscle Spasms Weakness Difficulty breathing Loss of normal movement Numbness or tingling in your limbs, hands, or feet Difficulty walking or standing A wide range of back injuries can be caused by a car collision, with whiplash being one of the most common. This injury affects the cervical spine and can cause long-lasting back pain. Soft tissue injuries are another example of a back injury that causes significant pain, muscle spasms, and stiffness. The supportive discs in your spine can slip out of place, crack, or rupture during a car accident. Because the body typically can't absorb large amounts of force at once, the impact of a car accident can result in a herniated disc or cause vertebrae in your spine to fracture. Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious injuries you can sustain after a car accident. Damage to the spinal cord can result in permanent nerve damage or paralysis. If you are suffering from a lower back injury after a car wreck, you shouldn’t assume that the pain will go away on its own; even a minor back injury can lead to chronic pain or mobility limitations. Post-accident endorphins may also mask the pain of more severe injuries after an accident. Delaying treatment not only increases the risk of your injuries worsening, but it will also make it more difficult to prove that the accident caused your injury. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can help you navigate the tricky claims process and determine the amount of compensation you may be entitled to in your claim. The sooner you start the claims process, the better.