Spine Conditions

Spinal Injuries & Trauma

Understanding Spine Damage After Accidents and Injuries

The spine is strong and flexible, but trauma can cause fractures, dislocations, ligament injuries, or spinal cord damage. Whether from a car accident, sports injury, or fall, spinal injuries and trauma require urgent evaluation. Without proper care, they can lead to chronic pain, deformity, or even paralysis. At Desert Spine and Pain, we provide expert care for spine trauma — from emergency stabilization to long-term recovery. Led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS, one of the nation’s top neurosurgeons, our Phoenix-based team combines advanced surgical skill with compassionate support to guide patients through every stage of healing.

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Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.

Disc Disorders We Treat

Fractures from Trauma

Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolysis

Sports-Related Injuries

Vertebral Compression Fractures

Whiplash Injuries

What Are Spinal Injuries?

Spinal injuries can affect the bones (vertebrae), discs, ligaments, nerves, or spinal cord itself. They may include:

  • Fractures – Breaks in the vertebrae (e.g., compression fractures)

  • Dislocations – Vertebrae forced out of alignment

  • Ligament injuries – Instability from torn stabilizing tissues

  • Disc injuries – Herniations or extrusions from trauma

  • Spinal cord injury – Damage to the nerve tissue causing neurological symptoms

Causes of Spinal Trauma

  • Motor vehicle accidents – The most common cause of serious spinal injuries

  • Falls – Especially in older adults with osteoporosis

  • Sports injuries – Football, gymnastics, or other high-impact sports

  • Violence – Gunshot wounds or assaults

  • Workplace accidents – Heavy lifting, machinery-related trauma

Symptoms of Spinal Injuries

  • Severe back or neck pain

  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs

  • Difficulty walking or loss of coordination

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control (serious sign of spinal cord involvement)

  • Visible deformity or abnormal alignment of the spine

  • Paralysis (in severe cases)

  • Emergency signs: After major trauma, assume spinal injury until proven otherwise. Seek immediate care.

Diagnosis

At Desert Spine and Pain, urgent and accurate diagnosis is key:

  • Physical exam – Assessing neurological function, movement, and sensation

  • Imaging –

    • X-rays for fractures or misalignment

    • CT scans for detailed bone images

    • MRI for nerve, ligament, and spinal cord assessment

  • Neurological testing – To evaluate motor and sensory loss

    calized back or neck pain

Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine

Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon renowned for his expertise in spine surgery, offering both traditional and minimally invasive procedures to treat a wide range of spinal conditions. Whether addressing herniated discs, spinal stenosis, fractures, deformities, or degenerative diseases, Dr. Greenwald combines surgical precision with the latest technology to achieve optimal outcomes. His approach emphasizes preserving mobility, minimizing tissue disruption, and promoting faster recovery. With decades of experience and a strong reputation for compassionate care, Dr. Greenwald has helped countless patients throughout South Florida find lasting relief and return to active, pain-free lives.

Treatment Options

Post Accident Care

  • Immobilization at the scene to prevent further injury

  • Medications to control pain and inflammation

  • Urgent surgery when necessary to stabilize and decompress

Surgical Treatments

  • Spinal Fusion – Stabilizes fractured or unstable segments

  • Decompression procedures – Relieves pressure on nerves or spinal cord

  • Instrumentation – Plates, screws, or rods to restore alignment and strength

  • Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) – When possible, reduces tissue damage and speeds recovery

Non-Surgical Care

  • Bracing for stable fractures

  • Medications for pain and swelling

  • Physical Therapy for strength and mobility after stabilization

Non-Invasive Treatments

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I suspect a spinal injury?

A bulging disc extends outward without rupture, while a herniated disc leaks material that can compress nerves.

Are all spinal injuries permanent?

No. Many fractures and ligament injuries heal completely with proper treatment. However, spinal cord injuries may cause lasting impairment.

How long does it take to recover from spinal trauma?

Stable fractures may heal in weeks, while severe injuries can take months or years depending on nerve involvement.

Do spinal injuries always require surgery?

No. Some stable fractures can heal with bracing and therapy. Surgery is needed if there’s instability or nerve compression.

How does Desert Spine and Pain handle spinal trauma differently?

We provide advanced neurosurgical expertise, minimally invasive options, and personalized long-term rehabilitation plans — led by Dr. Greenwald.

Book your Spine Care Consultation Today!

Desert Spine and Pain

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