Automobile accidents can cause a lot of pain, even if the impact is relatively minor. Approximately 4.5 million Americans were seriously injured in car accidents last year, many of whom suffered from shoulder injuries.
If you experience shoulder pain after an accident, seek medical attention. The injury can become worse if left untreated. Symptoms to look out for include:
- Shoulder pain in a specific location
- Sudden and intense shoulder pain
- Tingling, weakness, swelling, or numbness in shoulder
- Painful and stiff shoulder that hurts more at night; pain may interrupt sleep
- Discoloration in shoulder area (may appear pale or blue)
Types of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder injuries can be particularly debilitating, especially if your dominant hand is affected by pain and a lack of mobility. This can make participating in daily work task and household activities difficult. The shoulder is very complex, made up of a series of bones, ligaments, muscles, tendons, and joints. An injury to any part of the shoulder can cause serious pain.
Shoulder pain as a result of car accidents can include:
- Strains and sprains
- Soft tissue injury
- Torn rotator cuff
- Fractures
- Whiplash
Rotator cuff injuries most frequently occur due to high impact. Whiplash is traditionally associated with neck and back pain, but the pain may radiate down the shoulders and arms. It can also cause limited mobility. Various strains, sprains, and soft tissue injuries can occur as a result of an individual being moved around inside the car during a crash.
Shoulder Pain Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the location and extent of the injury. Rotator cuff and joint tears are often treated with anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. A serious tear may require surgery. If you experience a fracture, you may need to wear a sling or undergo surgery.
If you or a loved one is experiencing shoulder pain after a car accident, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
