Stop and Assess Your Symptoms

The first step is to evaluate how you’re feeling. Look for these warning signs:

• Severe Neck or Back Pain – Intense pain following an accident or trauma.

• Numbness or Tingling – Sensations of “pins and needles” in your arms, legs, or extremities.

• Weakness or Loss of Movement – Difficulty moving or feeling certain parts of your body.

• Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control – A serious indication of potential nerve damage.

Do you think you might have a spine injury? Whether you’re experiencing pain from a fall, a car accident, or whiplash affecting your neck and back, knowing what to do next is crucial. Acting quickly can prevent further damage and improve your chances of a full recovery.

At Spine Medicine & Surgery of New Jersey, our team of spine specialists is here to guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. If you suspect a spine injury, follow these five essential steps.

Call for Emergency Medical Help

Seeking professional care promptly is vital. Call 911 immediately if you or someone else may have a spine injury. When speaking to the operator, clearly explain: 

• What caused the injury (e.g., fall, car accident, sports injury) 

• Any symptoms you are experiencing (pain, numbness, mobility loss) 

• Whether you can move safely or feel any areas of your body 

Early medical intervention can prevent long-term complications and guide the best course of treatment. 

Avoid Moving Unless Absolutely Necessary

Movement can worsen spinal injuries. Unless you’re in immediate danger, stay still until medical help arrives. If you’re assisting someone else: 

• Do Not Move Them – Keep the injured person stationary. 

• Stabilize the Head and Neck – If possible, place rolled towels on either side of the neck to prevent movement. 

If evacuation is necessary for safety reasons, keep the spine as straight as possible during transport. 

Seek Specialized Spine Care

Once you receive emergency care, follow up with a spine specialist. At Spine Medicine & Surgery of New Jersey, our team provides comprehensive evaluations and advanced treatments for spine injuries. We offer: 

• Diagnostic Imaging – Including X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to identify fractures, soft tissue damage, or other concerns. 

• Minimally Invasive Techniques – To reduce recovery time and discomfort. 

• Personalized Care Plans – Tailored treatment approaches to restore mobility and improve quality of life. 

Symptoms like ongoing pain, numbness, or loss of control over bodily functions warrant an immediate consultation with our experienced specialists. 

Begin Treatment and Rehabilitation

Your recovery journey starts with the right treatment plan. At Spine Medicine & Surgery of New Jersey, we focus on personalized care that may include: 

• Physical Therapy – Targeted exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and movement. 

• Pain Management – Comprehensive approaches to alleviate discomfort and enhance healing. 

• Surgical Intervention – If necessary, we offer advanced surgical solutions to stabilize and repair spinal damage. 

Our goal is to help you return to your daily life with minimal downtime and lasting relief. 

A Note on Whiplash 

One common spine injury after car accidents is whiplash—a sudden, forceful back-and-forth motion of the neck. Symptoms may include: 

• Neck pain and stiffness 

• Headaches and dizziness 

• Fatigue or difficulty concentrating 

Whiplash can cause prolonged discomfort or even lead to more serious complications. Our spine specialists can evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate treatments to alleviate pain and prevent long-term issues. 

Your Trusted Spine Care Experts in New Jersey 

If you suspect a spine injury, taking quick and informed action is crucial. The team at Spine Medicine & Surgery of New Jersey is dedicated to providing expert care from diagnosis to recovery. Whether you need a comprehensive evaluation, advanced treatments, or specialized surgical care, we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward relief and recovery.