In this article, we’ll explore the most common orthopedic injuries sustained in car accidents, how to recognize when medical attention is needed, and the essential steps to take for a safe and effective recovery. Whether you’re a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, understanding these risks can help you stay informed and prepared.
Written by
Angel Rigueras
Pain Management Specialist
Share
Written by
Angel Rigueras
Pain Management Specialist
Share
Table of content
Related content
Accidents happen in an instant, but their impact can last a lifetime. Injuries are broadly classified as unintentional or intentional, with car crashes being one of the most common causes of unintentional injuries worldwide.
Road traffic accidents (involving vehicles, pedestrians, or stationary objects) can lead to devastating consequences, affecting millions of people each year.
According to the latest report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 716 people lost their lives in motor vehicle crashes on U.S. roadways in 2022, with a fatality rate of 1.38 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT). Additionally, an estimated 2.38 million people suffered injuries, highlighting the widespread impact of traffic accidents. As road travel increases, so does the risk of injury.
Among the many injuries caused by car accidents, orthopedic trauma is one of the most common and debilitating. From whiplash and fractures to spinal damage and joint dislocations, these injuries can severely impact mobility, daily activities, and overall quality of life.
An injury is defined as physical damage to the body, whether intentional or unintentional. In the case of orthopedic injuries (OIs) caused by road traffic accidents, the damage can affect various parts of the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and skin. In many cases, individuals sustain multiple fractures, meaning a single bone is broken in two or more places.
Several factors contribute to the high incidence of orthopedic injuries in car crashes. Human errors, such as speeding, disregarding traffic laws, fatigue, and underage driving, are among the leading causes. Additionally, the rising number of motor vehicles due to population growth has increased the likelihood of accidents. Higher-speed collisions are particularly dangerous, often resulting in severe injuries that require hospitalization.
Studies on car accident-related injuries indicate the lower limbs are the most frequently affected, followed by multiple injuries, the upper limbs, and lastly, chest injuries (such as rib and clavicle fractures). Head and neck trauma are also common, often leading to serious complications
Prevalence studies of orthopedic injuries in car accidents report that among orthopedic injuries, fractures are the most common, followed by soft tissue damage and dislocations. The most frequently fractured sites include:
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents, particularly in rear-end collisions. It occurs when the head is suddenly and forcefully jerked forward and backward, placing excessive strain on the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck.
Whiplash can present with a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical symptoms such as neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and a reduced range of motion. In addition to these physical effects, many people experience cognitive symptoms such as confusion and “foggy” thinking, difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and slowed thinking, and emotional symptoms, including irritability, mood swings, anxiety, or even depression.
Diagnosis and Treatment: To rule out fractures or other structural injuries, healthcare providers often use imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Treatment for whiplash typically includes:
While many dislocations heal with proper treatment, some can lead to serious complications, including:
Doctors diagnose joint dislocations using physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Additional tests may be needed if complications are suspected:
CT angiography – To check for artery injuries (e.g., after a knee dislocation).
Nerve conduction studies – To assess nerve damage (typically done later, not in emergency settings).
In emergencies, patients are assessed for life-threatening injuries. If a hip dislocation is suspected, doctors also check for hidden internal bleeding that may cause shock. Limb injuries are examined for open wounds, nerve damage, or poor circulation, as well as compartment syndrome, a condition that can cut off blood supply and require urgent treatment.
Reduction (realignment) – Most dislocations can be manually repositioned without surgery.
Immobilization – Bracing or splinting the joint to allow healing.
Pain management – Includes medications and techniques like RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) or PRICE (adding Protection).
Surgery (if needed) – Required for severe dislocations, associated fractures, or joint instability.
If a joint is dislocated with an accompanying fracture, the priority is realigning the joint as soon as possible. If necessary, elective surgery may be performed later to repair fractures. In cases where closed reduction is unsuccessful, open surgery is required.
The main goal of treatment is to restore normal joint function, stabilize fractures, and enable early rehabilitation to prevent long-term complications.
Spinal injuries are among the most severe consequences of car accidents, with a mortality rate between 3.8% and 15.4%. These injuries can lead to long-term disability, affecting young and otherwise healthy individuals, with significant social and economic impacts due to lifelong care and rehabilitation costs.
Common Types of Spinal Injuries
Car accidents can cause various spinal injuries, including:
Lower back injuries are particularly common due to the force exerted on the spine during a crash. Spinal injuries can occur at different levels: cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), lumbar (lower back), sacral, or multiple levels.
Spinal injuries result from different crash forces, including:
Cervical spine injuries (neck) are often linked to clavicle or shoulder fractures due to their proximity. Similarly, lumbar spine fractures are frequently associated with internal abdominal injuries.
Studies show that 80% of spinal cord injury patients have multiple injuries, including fractures (29.3%) and brain trauma (11.5%).
Early diagnosis is critical to prevent worsening conditions. Doctors use:
Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent complications. Treatment options include:
Early stabilization is essential to prevent delayed spinal cord injury.
While cervical collars are widely used, prolonged use may lead to complications such as pressure sores, difficulty swallowing, or breathing issues.
Soft tissue injuries (STIs) involve damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, often caused by sudden trauma (e.g., falls, collisions, or overuse). These injuries are among the most common reasons for emergency department visits and can range from mild sprains to severe ligament tears requiring surgical intervention.
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for proper management. Common diagnostic methods include:
Initial Treatment (RICE Protocol) include, Rest – Avoid weight-bearing activities to prevent further damage. Ice – Apply cold packs (10–20 minutes per session) to reduce swelling. Compression – Use bandages or wraps to limit inflammation. Elevation – Keep the injured area elevated to minimize swelling.
For wounds, cleaning and primary closure help prevent infection, sometimes supplemented with antibiotics. Severe soft tissue damage may require advanced techniques like vacuum-assisted closure, microsurgical flap reconstruction, or fixation with surgical implants.
Immobilization and Pain Management is a common use of splints, braces, or casts to stabilize the injured area and administration of analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications.
Gradual reintroduction of movement to restore strength and flexibility. Exercises to prevent stiffness and muscle atrophy.
In severe cases, Surgical Intervention can be necessary:
Car accidents can have a serious and lasting impact on musculoskeletal health, making it essential to recognize and address orthopedic injuries promptly.
Understanding common injuries, such as whiplash, joint trauma, and spinal damage, empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward recovery and long-term well-being.
Rehabilitation plays a critical role in restoring mobility and function, often requiring a combination of physical therapy, pain management, and, in some cases, surgical intervention.
Maintaining good posture, following prescribed exercises, and minimizing strain on injured areas are key factors in ensuring a smooth recovery.
At University Orthopedic Care, we specialize in advanced, patient-centered treatment for accident-related injuries.
Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons, along with a multidisciplinary team of experts in neurophysiology, neurology, neurosurgery, orthopedics, and spinal pain management, provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, seeking timely medical attention is crucial.
Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our expert team, contact us at (866) 962-1744, who will guide you through a structured rehabilitation plan to help you regain strength, mobility, and quality of life.
Related content
