In a study simulating car-to-pedestrian impacts at speeds between 25 and 32 km per hour researchers found that the medial collateral ligament (MCL) experienced more than double its normal stress capacity, making it one of the first structures in the knee to fail under impact.
Menisci and cartilage are also affected, and the severity of injury changes depending on whether the impact hits directly on the knee or below it.
These findings explain why many people experience knee pain, swelling after an auto accident even when there are no visible fractures.
At The Disc Chiropractic in Wheat Ridge, CO, we help patients recover from these post-traumatic knee injuries through precise, evidence-based treatments.
Common Post-Accident Causes of Knee Pain
When patients come into my Wheat Ridge office after an auto accident, these are the common causes of knee injuries after auto accidents I see most often.
Dashboard Knee (Traumatic Patellofemoral Injury)
One of the most frequent knee injuries from auto accidents occurs when the knee hits the dashboard. This “dashboard knee” can bruise or tear the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). It often causes pain behind the kneecap and difficulty bending or bearing weight.
Meniscus Tears
When the foot is planted during a crash, twisting or compressive forces can damage the medial or lateral meniscus, the cartilage that cushions the knee. Even partial tears alter the way the joint distributes weight and absorbs shock, which can lead to ongoing swelling, clicking, or instability.
Ligament Sprains and Partial Tears
Side-impact collisions or sudden braking often overstretch or partially tear major ligaments, including the anterior cruciate (ACL), medial collateral (MCL), and lateral collateral (LCL). Even when the tear is not complete, the knee can become unstable because these ligaments are responsible for controlling movement and resisting forces.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Post-Impact Tracking Issues)
After trauma, the kneecap (patella) may no longer track properly in its groove due to swelling or soft tissue trauma. This misalignment places abnormal pressure on the joint, causing pain at the front of the knee and making the knee more vulnerable to further injury.
Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome
Sudden side forces or changes in pelvic alignment after an accident affect the IT band, the fibrous tissue running along the outside of the thigh to the knee. Tightness in this structure increases friction over the outer knee, producing sharp or burning sensations during movement. Proper soft tissue therapy and alignment correction directly reduce this tension.
Post-Traumatic Bursitis
Impact and inflammation after a collision can irritate the bursae, the small fluid-filled sacs that protect the knee joint from friction. When inflamed, they cause localized tenderness and limit smooth movement. Addressing swelling and joint pressure allows the knee to return to normal function.
Knee Pain Treatment After an Auto Accident at The Disc Chiropractic
Every auto injury is different, which is why I take time to examine not only the knee but also your hips, pelvis, and spine. Depending on your diagnosis, I may recommend the following treatments.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Using either my hands or with the aid of an instrument, I perform targeted adjustments based on X-rays to those specific joints thus relieving stress and helping your knee take on more weight.
Shockwave Therapy
We use the Intelect RPW 2 to accelerate healing of ligament injuries. In a clinical study, patients with MCL injuries reported their pain dropped from a VAS score of 3 to 0 over 4 weeks of treatment.
At 1 month, ultrasound showed tissue regeneration and reduced ligament thickness, and patients had resumed normal daily activity.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Using the Rapid Release™ Pro 3+ in combination with adjustments, I address tight muscles around the quads, hamstrings, and IT band. This helps decrease irritation through gentle massages.
Therapeutic Exercises
Post-treatment rehab often reveals muscle imbalance, especially weak glutes or hip stabilizers. I’ll guide you through specific exercises to rebuild strength and retrain proper movement, reducing the load on your injured knee long-term.
FAQs About Knee Pain After a Car Accident
Can chiropractic care help with post-accident knee pain?
Yes. By improving pelvic and spinal alignment, we reduce excess strain on the knee joint. Combined with tissue and mobility work, chiropractic care can speed recovery from impact-related injuries.
Do I need imaging like an MRI before starting treatment?
Not always. If I suspect structural damage such as a complete tear or fracture, we’ll refer for imaging. Otherwise, many soft-tissue and alignment-based injuries can be safely evaluated and treated clinically first.
What if my knee pain started days after the accident?
That’s common. Inflammation or soft-tissue irritation can build up over time. Early evaluation helps prevent chronic pain and long-term compensation patterns.
Can this help with arthritis made worse by an accident?
Yes. While arthritis can’t be reversed, we can reduce inflammation, improve joint mechanics, and help you move more comfortably.
Still Limping After a Crash?
You don’t have to live with pain or stiffness every time you take a step. If your knee was injured in a car accident, let’s figure out what’s really going on and start rebuilding your strength naturally.
Your first visit is just $97, which includes a consultation, movement and spinal exam, and my detailed report of findings.
Book an Appointment Now or Call: 720-573-4910 to get started.