COMMON INJURIES AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT

Black and white anatomical diagram highlighting common motor vehicle collision injury zones
IMPACT TRAUMA AXISFIG. 01 — CERVICAL & SPINAL

Whiplash

Sudden cervical hyperflexion-hyperextension damaging neck ligaments, tendons, and surrounding spinal joints.

Neck Pain

Acute cervical strain, facet joint dysfunction, and muscle guarding triggered by blunt deceleration forces.

Back Pain

Thoracic and lumbar vertebral joint restrictions, ligament sprains, and postural compensation following impact.

Headaches

Post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches originating from trauma to the upper cervical vertebrae and occipital nerves.

Shoulder Pain

Traumatic impingement and soft tissue damage caused by diagonal seatbelt restraint tension during collision.

Muscle Strains & Spasms

Protective involuntary muscle contraction and micro-tears resulting from high-velocity vehicular momentum.

Reduced Range of Motion

Mechanical stiffness and joint restriction in the spine or extremities that limits everyday functional movement.

Radiating Pain Numbness or Tingling

Neurological irritation or nerve compression in the cervical or lumbar spine extending into the arms, hands, or legs.

Other Accident-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries

Pelvic misalignments, rib cage contusions, and extremity joint sprains sustained during vehicle cabin contact.

X-RAY & INJURY EVALUATION

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Following a motor vehicle accident, invisible structural damage to the spine and bony architecture can occur without immediate external bruising. At CAR ACCIDENT INJURY CARE, diagnostic X-rays are employed when clinically indicated to properly assess spinal curvature, joint alignment, and potential traumatic instability resulting from the crash.

Radiological evaluation is not required for every patient. Dr. Tien performs a comprehensive orthopedic and neurological evaluation prior to ordering any imaging. X-rays are utilized only when your injury mechanism, physical symptoms, or examination findings demonstrate clinical necessity, ensuring precise diagnosis while avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure.