What is a “minor injury”

The definition of a minor injury is determined by the diagnosis rather than the symptoms, and it does not consider the injury’s physical or emotional effects on the individual. Generally, individuals with a minor injury can expect to recover with appropriate treatment, manage their symptoms independently or with some assistance, and return to work or normal activities relatively quickly. 

There are two types of minor injury;

1. Soft tissue injury 

Soft tissue injuries refer to damages to the muscles and other non-bony tissues in the body. These injuries are prevalent at different stages of life, and it’s probable that you’ve experienced one before, such as a muscle strain or a painful back. The most frequently occurring soft tissue injury following an accident is whiplash, which typically causes neck discomfort. 

2. Minor psychological or psychiatric injury 

Following a crash, you may encounter changes in your mood and behavior, or feelings of sadness, anxiety, fear, anger, or guilt, whether you were involved in the incident or witnessed it. These psychological symptoms are considered minor psychiatric or psychological injuries, and most people tend to recover within a short period, enabling them to return to work or normal activities. While the duration of these emotions may vary from one person to another, evidence suggests that people start feeling better soon after. In general, if the injury is not a recognized psychiatric illness, it is categorized as a minor injury.  

However, two psychiatric illnesses, namely adjustment disorder and acute stress disorder, are considered minor injuries since they also lead to a full recovery within a short period.