Knee, Hip, Lower Extremity Injuries post-MVA

Understanding Knee, Hip, Lower Extremity Injuries post-MVA

Also known as: Dashboard Knee, PCL Injury from Car Accident, Pedal Ankle Injury, Post-MVA Hip Injury Lower extremity injuries from MVAs usually come from two mechanisms: the dashboard striking the knees and driving the tibia posteriorly — the classic "dashboard injury" stressing the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and transmitting force to the hip and SI joint — and braking-pedal injuries that twist and compress the ankle and foot. Many patients underestimate lower extremity injury in the initial days while the neck and back dominate; the knee or ankle then becomes the limiting factor for return to work and driving. Posterior or deep knee pain, a sense of the knee giving way, difficulty on stairs, hip or groin pain with weight-bearing, and ankle pain or stiffness are characteristic. Bruising on the shin just below the kneecap is a hallmark of the dashboard mechanism.

Swelling typically peaks 24-72 hours after the crash. Care starts with careful orthopedic assessment and appropriate imaging referrals. Treatment includes manual therapy to restricted joints, soft-tissue therapy, functional taping or bracing, progressive loading of the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, proprioceptive and balance retraining, and gait correction. Class IV laser, shockwave therapy, and PEMF support tissue healing.

We refer promptly for orthopedic evaluation when exam suggests significant ligamentous, meniscal, or labral injury that may require surgical input. We may recommend: diversified adjustments, Activator, ART, Graston/IASTM, Class IV laser, shockwave therapy, corrective exercise Seek immediate care if: You cannot bear weight at all, have obvious deformity, severe swelling with pale or cold foot, numbness in the foot, or a locked joint — these require urgent orthopedic or ER evaluation.