Low Back Pain After Auto Accident Stockton CA

Even with seatbelts, your lumbar spine absorbs significant force during an auto accident. The combination of compression, rotation, and shear forces can damage the muscles, ligaments, joints, and discs of the lower back. In rear-end collisions, the lumbar spine is pushed forward while your seat back rebounds. In side-impacts, the body twists relative to the pelvis, straining the lumbar facet joints.

Low back injuries from auto accidents often involve more than one structure. Muscle strain, ligament sprain, and disc involvement frequently coexist. Symptoms may take days to fully present, especially if the disc is involved.

We start with a thorough lumbar examination including chiropractic, neurological, and orthopedic tests. X-rays are taken when indicated and MRI is coordinated through our partner imaging center if there is suspicion of disc involvement, fracture, or nerve compression.

Treatment is tailored to the specific injury pattern. For uncomplicated muscle and ligament strain, gentle chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue work, and progressive exercise are highly effective. For disc-related cases, we use lower-force techniques such as flexion-distraction or activator-assisted adjustments. When specialist input is needed (pain management, orthopedic, neurosurgical), we coordinate the referral.

Lumbar injuries from auto accidents can be complex. We have been treating them since 1994 and we know how to identify what needs more than chiropractic care versus what will respond well to conservative treatment. Our documentation reflects the clinical picture accurately and our communication with attorneys and specialists is professional and prompt.