Ligament Sprains In Aftermath of St. Louis Car Accident

Ligament sprains are a common injury sustained in car accidents, especially rear-end collisions or sudden stops. Here's how car wrecks can cause ligament sprains:

Sudden Force and Movement:

  • Spinal Ligaments: A forceful impact from behind can cause the neck to jerk back and forth rapidly, stretching or tearing the ligaments in the spine (cervical spine ligaments). This can lead to whiplash, a common neck injury after car accidents.
  • Knee Ligaments: Sudden impact or forceful braking can hyperextend the knee joint, stretching or tearing the ligaments that stabilize the knee (anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL)).
  • Ankle Ligaments: Similar to the knee, a sudden twist or forceful movement of the ankle during a car accident can sprain the ligaments on the outside (lateral ligaments) or inside (medial ligaments) of the ankle joint.

Seatbelt Syndrome:

While seatbelts are crucial for safety, the rapid tightening across the chest during a collision can sometimes cause sprains to the ligaments connecting the ribs to the sternum (costosternal ligaments).

Factors Affecting Severity:

  • Severity of Impact: The greater the force of the collision, the higher the risk of ligament sprains and the potential for more severe tears.
  • Seatbelt Positioning: A seatbelt worn too loosely might not provide enough support, increasing the risk of sprains during impact.
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: Degenerative joint disease or previous ligament injuries can make ligaments weaker and more susceptible to sprains in an accident.

Symptoms of Ligament Sprains:

  • Pain, especially when moving the affected joint
  • Swelling and inflammation
  • Bruising
  • Difficulty using or bearing weight on the injured joint

If you experience any of these symptoms after a car accident, seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can help ensure faster healing and prevent long-term complications.

Share