Getting into a car accident can be one of the scariest, most shocking experiences in a person's life. Screeching tires, burning rubber, crushing metal, and shattering glass are things that immediately come to mind when we think of a motor vehicle accident. In addition to monetary damages auto accidents can be very traumatic, physically as well as emotionally and mentally. It does not take a major car accident to break bones, dislocate joints or damage the vital, soft tissue structures of the musculoskeletal system. When someone is involved in a car accident they may seem fine immediately after due to the rush of adrenaline and the endorphins released by the body, which can act as pain killers and cover up serious but invisible injuries. These hidden injuries can begin to show in the days or weeks following the accident, and, if left untreated they can lead to years of pain and suffering.

Orthopedic Injuries after an accident

Vehicular accidents can cause many different injuries to various parts of the body depending on the conditions of the crash and the severity of the impact. The injuries can include simple abrasions or lacerations, bruises to small fractures and major head injuries. The most common auto-accident injuries include brain and head injuries, neck injuries or sprains like whiplash, jaw injuries, cervical bone dislocations, shoulder injuries such as a torn rotator cuff, bursitis, tendonitis, dislocations, spinal disc injuries, fractured ribs, fractured bones, and joints, etc. One visit to an orthopedic specialist after an accident can help keep an unpleasant situation from turning into a worse one.

Common Orthopedic Injuries Sustained in Car Accidents

● Broken bones 

● Muscle strains or ruptures

● Tendon inflammation 

● Tear or Rupture

● Ligament sprain or tear  

Although each accident is unique and symptoms vary for each patient, common symptoms include but, are not limited to:

● Restricted range or motion  ● Abnormal sensations (burning, prickling)

● A bump or deformity near the site of injury  ● Pain 

● Lack of mobility  ● Headaches 

● The inability to lift objects ● Swelling 

● A sagging joint  ● Bruising 

● A grinding sensation during movement

The human body is composed of a vast musculoskeletal system that is vital in allowing the body to move and perform basic daily functions. 

An orthopedist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions relating to the musculoskeletal system; i.e.. bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, or muscles. Orthopedists are the specialists in stitching back and resetting bones, and rebuilding muscular tissue internally. An orthopedic specialist is one of the best professionals to visit after an auto wreck given that most injuries that occur involve muscles, bones or joints. 

With the help of advanced diagnostic and imaging tools such as X-ray, MRI, CT Scan, or various other leading technologies, our physicians can determine the extent of injuries and choose the most effective and proper method to treat them. The treatment depends on the injury and the condition of the body. It may include methods ranging from immediate pain management to orthopedic surgeries. 

Apex Health

The specialists here at APEX Health have the experience and expertise to help those who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident. We will work with your attorney and/or insurance provider to ensure that your injuries are covered properly. At APEX Health we pride ourselves on going above and beyond for patients who have been involved in accidents-motor vehicle or otherwise- to ensure all their orthopedic needs are met promptly. Specializing in diagnosing and treating orthopedic injuries following any accident; our goal is to maximize the quality of life and to get patients back to their pre-accident levels, health and activity as quickly as possible.