Hi, Thanks for writing in. The L 1 vertebra had a kind of collapse due to the sudden forces during the collision. There is also pre existing degenerative changes in the lumbar spine. If she does not have any problem with the spinal canal or spinal nerve roots then she may just need few days rest. She can be on ointments containing pain relievers and muscle relaxants. If there is co existing nerve pain then medications given for neurogenic pain may be given and it works in most patients. Without complications she should be back to resuming normal daily activities in 15 days though some amount of lower back pain may still be present.