Common Car Accident Injuries

There is almost nothing worse than the hassle associated with car accidents. From dealing with insurance companies—both yours and the other driver’s—to addressing any health and injury issues that might have arisen as a result of the accident, these incidents can be complicated, tedious, costly and painful.

Back and Neck Injuries

A variety of injuries can result from automobile accidents, and back and neck strain are among the most common. Neck and back troubles arising from car accidents can take a variety of forms:

· Pinched nerves – Often the trauma of an accident will squeeze nerves, causing muscle weakness and tingling and numbness of the skin.

· Herniated Disc - Sudden stops or an impact from behind can jolt discs out of their proper positioning. This condition is commonly known as a “slipped disc” or "ruptured disc." To compare our anatomy to a jelly donut, in these injuries, the jelly gets squished out of the donut. When the injury is close to the spinal canal, the “jelly” presses against the spine, leading to a numb feeling and pain beside the nerve. Chemicals leaking from the ruptured disc can irritate the nerve and bring on more pain.

· Strained neck muscles – Muscles stretched or strained as a result of car accident trauma can also cause significant lingering pain.

· Neck sprains – When the tissue bands that connect bones (ligaments) are torn or stretched, sprains can occur. This leads to stiffness and a dull ache. Whiplash is the more common term for this type of injury.

Upper and Lower Limb Injuries

As one would guess limbs and extremities are vulnerable in car accidents.  Fractures to hands, arms, shoulders, forearms, fingers and wrists often require splints or casts.  Sometimes surgery is needed. Therapy may be essential after either of these to maximize strength and range of motion.

Rotator cuffs are also commonly injured in car accidents. MRI scanning procedures identify rotator cuff issues, but these tests are costly, so doctors often allow patients to finish their physical therapy before ordering an MRI. Reconstructive shoulder surgery is essential for severe shoulder injuries.

Hips, knees, heels, ankles, feet and legs are equally at risk and often damaged in car accidents. Ankle sprains, Achilles tendon injuries, ligament damage and stress fractures are common. Fractures often require a cast or surgery. Sometimes actual hip replacements or knee arthroplasty is needed.