Is Back Pain After a Fall a Sign of Something Worse?

In the aftermath of a fall, the immediate concern often revolves around visible injuries or broken bones. However, it is important to recognize that back pain following such an incident could be indicative of a more subtle yet potentially severe issue, which is a traumatic brain injury.

While the connection may not be immediately apparent, the interplay between the spine and the brain warrants a closer examination.

Spinal-cranial connection

The human body operates as an intricately connected system, where each part influences the other. In the context of a fall, the force and impact absorbed by the spine can reverberate through the body, affecting not only the immediate area of impact but also the cranial region.

Sudden shock

The spine can then transmit a shock to the delicate structures within the cranium. With 18,000 spinal injuries happening each year in America as of 2022, understanding this connection is important to grasping why back pain may be a sign of underlying trauma. Even seemingly isolated back pain can be a sign of the hurt inflicted on the brain during a fall.

Various neurological implications

Traumatic brain injuries often present with many symptoms, and back pain may be one of the subtler indicators. The nervous system can relay distress signals through pain in seemingly unrelated areas. Timely intervention not only aids in addressing apparent injuries but also in identifying hidden signs of this problem.

Vigilance goes beyond treating visible issues when it comes to personal injuries. Prioritizing not just the immediate well-being of the body but also the intricate balance between the spine and the brain