Chiropractor in Portland, OR

Car Accident Airbag Injuries

You were just in a car accident. The moment the tires screeched, the impact hit, and the airbag deployed is still racing through your mind. Even though you’re grateful the airbag kept you safe, you can’t help but wonder why it caused so much pain.

We understand how frustrating it can be to get hurt from an airbag, and you’re not alone. Many others have been through this too.

In this article, we’ll talk about the different types of injuries from airbag deployment, why they happen, and how chiropractic care can help with recovery. We’ll also look at how airbag deployment can affect the neck, head, and spine. Plus, we’ll discuss how chiropractic care can make a real difference in your recovery. 

Stick around as we unpack this important topic and share valuable information for anyone dealing with airbag-related injuries.

can airbags cause injuries

Table of Contents

Do Airbags Cause Injuries?

Yes, the unfortunate truth is that airbags can cause injuries. However, they’re often rare and nothing compared to the serious injuries they help prevent.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), airbags have saved over 50,000 lives since 1987. 

Despite this, airbags don’t always deploy as people expect. Dr. Gallucci of Premier Care Chiropractic in Portland, Oregon has treated many patients following collisions, even severe head-on ones, where airbags didn’t deploy at all. He notes people would be surprised by how often airbags don’t deploy. 

The most common injuries Dr. Gallucci sees related to airbags are burns caused by the speed of the airbag deploying next to a person’s face, and whiplash symptoms. It’s important for drivers and passengers to be aware of the potential risks associated with airbag deployment and to take necessary precautions to minimize the likelihood of these injuries occurring.

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Why Do Airbags Cause Injuries?

Airbags deploy very rapidly, which can lead to serious or sometimes fatal injuries if the driver or passenger is too close to or comes in direct contact with the airbag when it first begins to deploy. 

Airbags can also fail to deploy, or they might deploy incorrectly. Any airbag malfunction can increase the severity of a potential injury. If a manufacturer or the NHTSA determines that vehicle equipment is unsafe or doesn’t meet minimum safety requirements, a recall is issued. It’s crucial to replace recalled airbags to ensure everyone in your vehicle receives optimal protection in the event of a crash.

What Are the Most Common Airbag Injuries?

Even when functioning as intended, airbags can still cause injuries. A National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) report examined the range of injuries attributed to airbag deployment. Let’s explore some of the most common ones.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Airbags can cause soft tissue injuries like cuts, bruises, and scrapes due to the force of their deployment. These injuries typically affect the skin and muscles, leading to pain and discomfort.

Neck and Spine Injuries

Neck and spine injuries, such as whiplash or even fractures, can happen when an airbag deploys rapidly. The sudden force can strain or misalign the neck and spine, causing serious injury.

Facial Injuries

Facial injuries are a known risk when airbags deploy. These can include injuries like cuts, bruises, and even broken bones. Facial injuries are more likely if you’re sitting too close to the airbag or not wearing a seatbelt properly.

Chest Injuries

Chest injuries, including rib fractures and sternum fractures, can result from the high-impact force of the airbag. These injuries can be quite painful and may require substantial time to heal.

Brain Injuries

While rare, brain injuries such as concussions or other traumatic brain injuries can occur if the force of the airbag impact is significant enough. These injuries can have long-term effects and require immediate medical attention.

car accident airbag injury

How Can a Chiropractor Treat Airbag Injuries?

Not every airbag injury can be treated by a chiropractor, but many can. Chiropractic care can be incredibly beneficial for soft tissue injuries, neck and spine injuries, and some types of chest injuries. 

At Premier Care Chiropractic, we diagnose and treat each patient according to their specific injuries, creating a customized treatment plan.

Our various treatment options include:

  • Chiropractic Adjustments – A chiropractor for neck pain can realign the spine and neck to alleviate misalignments and reduce discomfort caused by airbag impacts.
  • Physical Therapy – Custom exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and support recovery from injuries like strains and sprains.
  • Massage Therapy – Techniques to relieve pain and promote healing in soft tissues affected by the impact.
  • Rehabilitation Exercises – Specific exercises designed to enhance mobility and support recovery from airbag-related injuries.
  • Electrical Stimulation – Electrical currents are applied to manage pain and facilitate the healing of injured tissues.
  • Ultrasound Therapy – Use of sound waves to reduce pain and inflammation and accelerate the healing process.
 
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How To Prevent Airbag Injuries

Preventing airbag injuries involves proper seating and vehicle maintenance. Here are some tips:

  • Sit upright and center: Ensure you are sitting upright, in the center of the seat, with your back against the seatback and your feet on the floor.
  • Maintain distance: Keep at least 10 inches between your chest and the steering wheel. 
  • Wear your seatbelt: Always wear your seatbelt correctly to prevent being thrown forward.
  • Young children should sit in the rear seat: Children under 12 should sit in the rear seats and follow all child seat safety guidance. 
  • Regular maintenance: Ensure your airbags are checked regularly as part of your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.

why do airbags cause injuries

Let Premier Care Chiropractic Treat Your Airbag Injuries After a Car Accident

If you’ve been injured by an airbag in a car accident, Premier Care Chiropractic in Portland, Oregon is here to help. Our experienced team can provide the care you need to help you get back to the activities you love. 

We also provide comprehensive treatment for other conditions, including: 

  • Headaches
  • Neck pain
  • Back pain
  • Sciatica
  • Shoulder pain
 

For new patients to Premier Care Chiropractic, treatment begins with a consultation and physical exam. Treatment may include range-of-motion evaluation, posture and gait assessment, and orthopedic testing to help identify the cause of a patient’s symptoms. Each patient benefits from a personalized treatment plan that might include chiropractic care, acupuncture, and massage therapy.

The staff at Premier Care Chiropractic respects patients’ time, lifestyles, and goals, aiming to help people feel better as quickly as possible. 

To start the process of feeling like yourself again, call the office to schedule or book an appointment online today.

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The content in this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.