Most Common Soft Tissue Injuries After a Car Accident

• Whiplash (Cervical Sprain/Strain) – Rapid acceleration–deceleration forces overstretch the neck muscles, ligaments, and tendons, causing pain, stiffness, headaches, and limited range of motion.
• Muscle Strains – Overstretching or tearing of muscle fibers commonly affects the neck, shoulders, back, and hips due to bracing or sudden impact. Symptoms include pain, weakness, and spasms.
• Ligament Sprains – Ligaments stabilizing joints (neck, spine, knees, wrists) may be overstretched or torn, leading to joint instability, swelling, and pain.
• Shoulder Soft Tissue Injuries (Rotator Cuff / Labrum) – Seatbelt force or steering-wheel bracing can injure the shoulder’s muscles and connective tissue, causing pain with lifting or reaching.
• Back and Paraspinal Soft Tissue Injuries – Muscles and ligaments supporting the spine can be damaged, resulting in low back or mid-back pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility—even without fractures.
• Tendon Injuries (Tendinitis or Tendinopathy) – Repetitive stress or acute trauma can inflame tendons in the neck, shoulders, elbows, hips, or knees, causing persistent pain with movement.