A car accident can lead to a wide variety of injuries, including what is known as dashboard knee. This occurs when your knee slams into the car’s dashboard due to the force of the collision. Dashboard knee is a non-fatal injury, but it can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. Here’s everything you should know about this injury:
Types of Dashboard Knee Injuries
There are two main types of dashboard knee injuries. The first is a fracture of the patella, which is the kneecap. The kneecap can simply split into two pieces or it can shatter into many pieces as a result of the impact. Either way, a fracture can make it difficult or impossible to walk or put weight on your leg, so you should immediately notice the symptoms of this injury.
The second type of dashboard injury is a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tear. The PCL, which is located in the back of the knee, connects the thighbone to the shinbone. This ligament also keeps the shinbone in place and prevents it from being pushed back too far. However, the force of a car accident can push the shinbone backward, stretching the PCL until it eventually tears.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Dashboard Knee Injuries
Imaging tests are used to diagnose both dashboard knee injuries. An X-ray will show a fracture of the patella, but it will not show ligament damage. An MRI will show ligament damage, so this is the best way to diagnose PCL tears.
Non-surgical and surgical treatment options are available for both types of dashboard knee injuries. A fracture is often treated with a splint or cast that is used to keep your knee in place while it heals. But, this may not work if the fractured pieces of the patella are not in the right place. In this case, surgery may be recommended.
Some PCL tears are treated with rest and physical therapy that is designed to strengthen the muscles and improve function in the knee. However, surgery may be necessary for some patients. If you undergo surgery, you will most likely need physical therapy afterward to regain strength in your knee and make a full recovery.
Did you sustain a knee injury in a car accident? If so, seek legal representation from experienced attorney Martin Gasparian as soon as possible. Mr. Gasparian will ensure you are fully compensated for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Schedule a free consultation regarding your case by calling 559-203-3333 or submitting your information at MaisonLaw.com.
