If you’re experiencing sternum pain after a car accident, you’re not alone. Chest pain is one of the more common symptoms following a vehicle collision, and while it might seem like a minor issue at first, it could be a sign of a more serious underlying injury. At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we specialize in evaluating and treating post-accident musculoskeletal trauma—including injuries to the chest, ribs, and sternum.
Get Appointment
Complete the Form Below and We’ll Get Back to you Immediately.
What Is the Sternum?
The sternum, or breastbone, is a flat bone located in the center of the chest. It connects to your rib cage via cartilage and plays a vital role in protecting your heart, lungs, and major blood vessels. Because of its central position, the sternum is vulnerable to injury during the impact of a car crash—especially in head-on collisions or accidents involving airbag deployment or seatbelt compression.
What Causes Sternum Pain After a Car Accident?
There are multiple potential causes for sternum pain following a car crash, ranging from mild bruising to serious structural injuries. Here are the most common culprits:
1. Seatbelt Injury
Seatbelts save lives, but the force exerted during a crash can cause bruising or even fracture the sternum. This is often referred to as seatbelt syndrome. The area may become tender, swollen, and discolored.
2. Airbag Deployment
While airbags prevent more severe injuries, their explosive deployment can strike the chest and cause significant blunt force trauma. This may result in sternum contusions, fractures, or muscle strain.
3. Impact With the Steering Wheel or Dashboard
If the chest hits a hard surface during the crash, the force may be transferred directly to the sternum. This can cause everything from soft tissue injuries to cracked or displaced bones.
4. Whiplash-Associated Thoracic Strain
Whiplash doesn’t just affect the neck. The sudden forward and backward motion can strain the thoracic muscles that anchor to the sternum, causing pain and inflammation in the chest area.
5. Underlying Cardiac Issues Triggered by Trauma
In rare cases, a car accident can trigger or aggravate cardiac events. Pain radiating from the sternum should be evaluated to rule out heart-related conditions—especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea.
Symptoms of a Sternum Injury
It’s important to distinguish between muscle soreness and symptoms that suggest a more serious condition. Common signs of a sternum-related injury include:
| Pain or tenderness in the center of the chest | Pain that worsens with movement, coughing, or deep breaths |
| Swelling or visible bruising over the breastbone | A popping or grinding sensation with motion |
| Difficulty sleeping or finding a comfortable position | Radiating pain into the ribs, back, or shoulders |
If you’re experiencing shortness of breath, chest tightness, or lightheadedness, seek immediate emergency care, as these could indicate a more serious internal injury or cardiac issue.
Diagnosing Sternum Pain After a Car Accident
At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we start with a thorough consultation and physical examination. If sternum pain is present, our team may recommend:
Digital X-rays to detect fractures or displacements
Diagnostic ultrasound or MRI to evaluate soft tissue damage
Chest expansion assessments to evaluate lung capacity
Orthopedic evaluation to rule out rib or spinal involvement
We also collaborate with imaging centers and medical specialists if further testing is needed to rule out organ damage or internal bleeding. Please note that we do not offer MRIs or orthpedic services.
Treatment Options at Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center
Every patient’s recovery journey is unique, and we create individualized treatment plans based on the type and severity of the injury.
Conservative Treatments
Most sternum injuries—especially bruises or strains—can be treated without surgery. We offer:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Guided recommendations for safe recovery
- Ice and Inflammation Management: Therapeutic modalities to reduce swelling
- Chiropractic Adjustments: Gentle alignment techniques to relieve thoracic pressure
- Physical Rehabilitation: Exercises to restore mobility and posture
- Soft Tissue Therapy: To address muscle tension and improve circulation
- Postural Support Devices: Braces or supports when necessary to stabilize the chest
Pain Management
We utilize non-invasive pain relief techniques to help you heal comfortably. These may include:
- Electrical stimulation (TENS)
- Ultrasound therapy
- Manual therapy and myofascial release
- Breathing and relaxation techniques to reduce tension in the chest wall
We focus on natural, drug-free treatment methods and avoid the use of opioids or invasive procedures whenever possible.
What Happens if a Sternum Injury Is Left Untreated?
Ignoring sternum pain after a car accident can lead to long-term complications, including:
Chronic chest wall pain
Breathing difficulties or reduced lung function
Poor posture and spinal misalignment
Increased risk of re-injury
Anxiety or panic associated with chest discomfort
Prompt treatment is the key to avoiding these outcomes and getting back to your normal life faster and safer.
Why Choose Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center?
At our facility, we don’t just treat symptoms—we uncover and address the root cause of your post-accident discomfort. We take a whole-body approach to healing, integrating chiropractic care, rehab, and supportive therapies under one roof.
Our accident injury professionals are trained to work with auto insurance and personal injury claims, making the process as smooth as possible. We also coordinate with attorneys and case managers to ensure seamless documentation and ongoing care for injured patients.
Schedule Your Evaluation Today
If you’re experiencing sternum pain after a car accident, don’t wait for it to get worse. Let the team at Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center perform a full evaluation and guide you through a recovery plan tailored to your needs.
Call now or request an appointment online to begin your path toward healing. We’re here to help you breathe easier and live pain-free again.
Dr. Jack Norsworthy
Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Dr. Jack Norsworthy
Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.
