See: http://www.gmayor.com/what_to_do_when_word_crashes.htm
For some background info, see also: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/211632

You might also try repairing the Office installation (via Start > Windows Control Panel > Programs > Programs & Features > Microsoft Office 2010 > Change).

__________________
Cheers,
Paul Edstein
[Fmr MS MVP - Word]