The amount of force a car crash subjects onto your body can be astonishing. The shoulders, being the most complex joints in your body, are especially vulnerable to damage. Understanding the common types of shoulder injuries and how to treat them can give you a better chance of fighting for fair compensation with your insurance company or in court.
Impingement syndrome
The impact of a car crash can tear the rotator cuff tendon, making it more difficult for the shoulder blade to move freely. As a result, this can lead to impingement syndrome, where the swollen bursa and tendons get squeezed between the bones in your shoulder. This type of injury can cause pain and discomfort when lifting or reaching with your arm.
Dislocation
A dislocation happens when the top of the bone in the upper arm pops out of the shoulder socket due to a sudden impact. Symptoms include intense pain and difficulty moving your arm or shoulder.
Soft tissue damage and bruising
The shoulder muscles, tendons, and ligaments can become strained or torn in a motor vehicle accident. You will notice swelling, change in color, and pain in the affected area after some time. Soft tissue injuries usually manifest after a while, sometimes even days, so it’s easy to fail to associate them with the crash.
What can you do in the event of an injury
If another driver was at fault for your accident, you can consider filing a personal injury case against them. Ohio operates under a traditional “fault” system when it comes to liability for crashes, meaning you have the option to file a claim with your own insurer, the at-fault driver’s insurer, or take the case to court to seek compensation for losses that result from the accident.
Proactive measures can make all the difference in safeguarding your rights following a shoulder injury after a car accident. Early diagnosis and treatment are not only beneficial for your health but also crucial in documenting the extent of your injuries, a key aspect when pursuing a personal injury case.