Car accidents are traumatic experiences that can cause a wide range of injuries, that are visible and invisible. Often the result of an accident can cause accidents in which an orthopeadic consultant can specialise in, such as damage to bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles.
These are some injuries can cause significant pain and limit mobility. Understanding these injuries are important for recovery.
Whiplash
This is a common injury that results from a car accident, especially in rear-end collisions. This occurs when the neck is suddenly jerked back and forth beyond the normal range of motion. This can cause neck pain, stiffness and limited mobility. This can lead to people experiencing headaches, dizziness and fatigue.
Fractures
Fractures, or broken bones are other injuries that orthopaedic consultants will review after car accidents. A fracture can occur at any part of the body, from the arms, legs, ribs, spine and hips. The severity of a fracture can range from a simple hairline, to a complete break that may need surgical intervention.
Fractures immediately after can cause swelling, significant pain and limited mobility. In severe cases fractures can result in disability or chronic pain, especially if they have not been treated straight away.
Dislocations
This occurs when a bone is forced out of the normal position at a joint. Car accidents can cause this to happen at any joint, like the shoulder, elbow, knee and hip. Dislocations can cause significant pain and swelling and should be treated with medical professionals help to not cause further damage.
Torn Ligaments
Ligaments are a touch band of tissue that connect bones to each other in joints. Car accidents, due to the force and trauma can cause ligaments to tear resulting in lot's of pain and swelling. Torn ligaments are most commonly seen in the knee or ankle, but can occur at any joint. Recovery from torn ligaments depend on the severity. If a full rupture has occurred, it is likely surgery will be needed to repair the the ligament, and physical therapy afterwards to regain muscle strength.
Spinal Cord Injuries
These are severe injuries, in which the trauma from the accident has caused the spinal cord to be injured. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs from the brain to the lower back and controls bodily functions. Worst case scenario, it can cause partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation and other complications.
How can these be prevented?
Car accidents can't always be prevented, the measures put in place can reduce the damage done. Always wear a seatbelt and make sure the passengers do too. Car seats for children should always be properly fitted and the right size for them.
Car accidents can cause a broad range of injuries, and typically are treated by an orthopeadic consultant.