Mechanisms of Injury
The four mechanisms of injury are impact, compression, tension, and penetration.
Impact involves a sudden force applied to the body, usually from a blow. This can be from a blunt object or a sharp object. Common causes of impact injuries include falls, car accidents, and sports injuries.
Compression is an object pressing against the body, often from the outside. This can be from a crushing force, like from a heavy object, or a sustained force, like from a tight bandage. Compression injuries can lead to decreased blood circulation and can put pressure on nerves.
Tension is when something pulls on the body, creating a stretching force. This can be from an external object, like being pulled by a rope, or from the body itself, like a muscle spasm.
Penetration is when an object enters the body, such as a bullet or a knife. This type of injury is usually considered a major trauma and can cause serious damage.
