A crush injury occurs when force or pressure is put on a body part. This type of injury most often happens when part of the body is squeezed between 2 heavy objects.
Damage related to crush injuries include:
- Bleeding
- Bruising
- Compartment syndrome (increased pressure in an arm or leg that causes serious muscle, nerve, blood vessel, and tissue damage)
- Fracture
- Laceration (open wound)
- Nerve injury
- Secondary infection
- Smashed fingers
- Wounds
First Aid
Steps for first aid treatment of a crush injury are:
- Stop bleeding by applying direct pressure.
- Cover the area with a wet cloth or bandage. Then, raise the area above the level of the heart, if possible.
- If there is suspicion of a head, neck or spinal injury, immobilize those areas if possible and then limit movement to only the crushed area.
- Call your local emergency number (such as 911) or local hospital for further advice.
Crush injuries most often need to be evaluated in a hospital emergency department. Surgery may be needed.
