How Rotational Forces, Not Direct Impact, Cause Most Concussions

It’s Not Just About Getting Hit on the Head

Many people think concussions happen only when the head takes a direct hit, like in a football tackle or a car accident. But the truth is, rotational forces—twisting motions of the brain—are often the real cause of concussion.

What Are Rotational Forces?

When your head or body suddenly turns or twists, your brain also rotates inside your skull. Unlike linear forces (front-to-back motion), rotational forces cause different parts of the brain to move at different speeds, stretching and twisting delicate brain tissue.

Why Rotational Forces Are More Dangerous Than Linear Impact

• Axonal Shearing: Rotational forces cause axons—the brain’s communication cables—to stretch, twist, and sometimes break. This damage is called diffuse axonal injury (DAI).

• Widespread Injury: Instead of a single bruise, rotational forces cause damage spread across many brain areas.

• Invisible Damage: This microscopic injury often doesn’t show up on CT or MRI scans but causes real symptoms.

How Rotational Forces Occur in Car Accidents

Even in low-speed crashes common around Kansas City (like rear-end collisions on I-435), the sudden jerk and rotation of your head and neck generate powerful rotational forces.

• Side-impact (T-bone) crashes cause your head to snap sideways.

• Rear-end collisions create a whip-like motion.

• Even if your head doesn’t strike the car interior, the brain still twists inside your skull.

Why Recognizing Rotational Injury Matters for Recovery

Because the injury is diffuse and microscopic, symptoms can be subtle or delayed:

• Memory problems

• Dizziness and balance issues

• Headaches and fatigue

• Mood changes

Early evaluation by a concussion specialist like Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC in Kansas City can identify these injuries and tailor treatment.

Call Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC for Expert Concussion Care

If you’ve been in any kind of car accident and experience concussion symptoms—even if your head wasn’t hit—call us at 816-226-7476 for a free consultation.

Special thanks to Complete Concussions for their training and educational resources. To learn more about comprehensive concussion treatment options, visit completeconcussions.com.

Disclaimer:

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. If you have experienced a concussion or other injury, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Always follow the advice and treatment plan given by your medical professional.

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