Layla is driving on the interstate in heavy traffic when the car in front of her suddenly comes to a full stop. Layla does the best she can to stop but still crashes into the car. She has her seatbelt on, and her airbag deploys, but Layla is still thrown forward. When Layla regains consciousness, she feels extreme pain in her back. EMTs on the scene immediately apply spinal motion restriction because they believe Layla could have sustained damage to her spine. What type of movement has MOST likely caused this spinal injury?

Question

overextension

flexion

compression

distraction

Answer 1

Based on the scenario described, the most likely type of movement that has caused Layla's spinal injury is compression.

In a car accident where an individual is thrown forward due to a sudden stop, the forces involved can lead to vertebrae being compressed against each other, potentially causing injuries to the spinal column. While overextension, flexion, and distraction can also cause spinal injuries, the mechanism of being thrust forward in a collision typically results in a compressive force on the spine.