Among the various injuries sustained in car crashes, shoulder injuries are prevalent and often underestimated. Understanding these common shoulder injuries is crucial for those seeking to navigate the road to recovery.
If you struggle with shoulder pain following an accident, there are a few things you should watch out for.
Rotator cuff injuries
The rotator cuff plays a key role in shoulder movement. Car accidents can result in sudden impact that might tear or strain the rotator cuff. This causes pain, weakness and restricted shoulder mobility. These injuries occur so frequently that more than 2 million people seek treatment for rotator cuff injuries in the United States each year.
Dislocation
The force exerted during a collision can cause your shoulder joint to dislocate, leading to intense pain and instability in the joint. Quick medical intervention can reset the joint, but this type of injury will require time to heal before you regain full use of the affected arm.
Fractured clavicle
The collarbone, or clavicle, is prone to fractures in a car accident. The impact of your shoulder hitting the steering wheel or airbag often causes this type of injury. A fractured collarbone can require extensive recovery and may significantly disrupt your daily life.
Shoulder injuries after a car accident can significantly affect your quality of life. You might not immediately connect your shoulder discomfort with your car accident, but when you understand these common injuries you can better address the problem in a timely manner. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you have documentation of your injuries for your accident claim.
