Car accidents are overwhelming and chaotic. Immediately after a collision, adrenaline can mask injuries. Shoulder pain is common after such incidents and should be treated promptly.
A shoulder injury, such as a dislocation or rotator cuff tear, can cause prolonged pain for up to a year. This can disrupt daily life, especially when work becomes impossible, racking up bills. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
If you are in Atlanta and suffering from shoulder pain after an accident, visit a physician at Accidentes 911 Shoulder Injuries. Our expertise in musculoskeletal issues ensures that you receive the best care. Call us at 470-855-4029 to book your appointment.
Steps to take if you have shoulder pain after a car accident.
Shoulder pain after a car accident can indicate a number of injuries. Here’s what to do
See your doctor
Don’t ignore shoulder pain. Regardless of its intensity, see a doctor immediately to get a proper diagnosis. Early medical intervention prevents complications and speeds recovery.
Follow your treatment plan
Once diagnosed, strictly follow your doctor’s treatment plan. This may include rest, physical therapy, medication or even surgery. Following the plan improves recovery and reduces the risk of long-term damage.
Keep medical records
Keep all medical bills, medical reports and related documents. These records are essential for insurance claims and possible personal injury cases if the accident was due to someone else’s negligence.
Avoid “toughing it out.”
Enduring pain without seeking treatment may result in:
Worsening of injury: Neglect can make the injury worse, leading to chronic pain, stiffness and limited mobility.
Delayed recovery: Ignoring pain delays treatment, prolonging recovery time and risking permanent damage.
Complications: Untreated shoulder injuries can lead to complications such as arthritis or nerve damage.
Consult an attorney
If the accident was due to someone else’s negligence, consult a personal injury attorney. They will advise you of your legal rights and assist you with insurance claims or compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and suffering.
Contact the car insurance company
Promptly report the accident to your insurance company. Ask about coverage for medical expenses and vehicle repairs.
Avoid signing settlements unwisely
Before signing any settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company, seek legal advice. Settlements may seem beneficial at first, but could limit future compensation if more injuries are discovered.
Common shoulder injuries due to traffic accidents
Shoulder pain usually results from damage to the delicate structures of the arm (muscles, bones, tendons, cartilage, ligaments, nerves). Automobile collisions can cause soft tissue tears, fractures and dislocations. Here are some of the most common shoulder injuries in car accidents:
Whiplash
Whiplash is caused by rapid movements of the neck and head, often due to rear-end collisions. The force jerks the upper body forward and backward, stretching and tearing the tissues of the neck, many of which connect to the shoulder, causing shoulder pain. In severe cases of whiplash, the resulting swelling can reduce the space in the shoulder joint, causing impingement. These injuries require immediate medical attention.
Rotator Cuff Rupture
The rotator cuff is made up of four muscles that form tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. A sudden impact or gripping the steering wheel hard before a crash can tear these tendons, causing significant pain.
SLAP tear
A SLAP tear (superior labral tear anterior to posterior) affects the cartilage of the shoulder joint. This damage can cause instability in the arm. Unlike rotator cuff tears, the symptoms of SLAP tears are felt more in the front of the shoulder.
Clavicle Fracture
The clavicle is prone to fracture in accidents, especially if the arm rests against the dashboard. This fracture causes significant pain and instability in the shoulder.
Dislocated shoulder
The force of impact can dislodge the bones of the shoulder joint, causing severe pain, swelling and instability. Immediate medical attention is crucial for a dislocated shoulder.
Symptoms of shoulder injuries
The shoulder is a fragile ball and socket joint that is vulnerable to injury in a traffic accident. Although it is normal to feel some discomfort after a collision, severe pain in the shoulder could indicate a major injury. Pain in the shoulder, upper back or arm is the primary indicator of shoulder injury. Other symptoms include instability, restriction of motion, or radiating pain from the shoulder blade. Pain may begin immediately or days after the accident.
Pain that manifests one to two days after the accident is called delayed pain, which complicates the initial assessment of the injury. Without early treatment, these injuries may worsen or become permanent.
Main symptoms of road traffic shoulder injuries
- Swelling and stiffness
- Weakness or difficulty moving
- Limited range of motion
- Bruising or discoloration
- Neck and upper back pain
- Joint instability
- Numbness
- Cramping during movement
- Muscle spasms or cramps in the shoulders or arms
Seek medical help immediately if you experience these symptoms after a car accident.
Common treatments for shoulder injuries
Home remedies
- Rest: Avoid activities that strain the shoulder.
- Ice and heat therapy: Apply ice packs for 15 minutes intermittently to decrease swelling. Use heat for chronic pain but avoid with inflammation.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen help reduce pain and inflammation.
Maintaining good posture, sitting up straight and relaxing the shoulders, can prevent strain and speed recovery.
Medical Interventions
- Physical therapy: Personalized exercise programs performed by physical therapists improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and restore shoulder motion.
- Corticosteroid injections: These injections are intended to relieve inflammation in the shoulder joint.
- Immobilization: The use of a sling or brace helps immobilize the shoulder, promoting healing.
Surgical Solutions
Rotator cuff repair: Surgery may be necessary to repair a major rotator cuff tear.
Shoulder replacement: Severe arthritis or damage to the joint may require shoulder replacement surgery.
Get the Right Treatment for Shoulder Injury in Atlanta
Dealing with shoulder pain after a car accident requires immediate action. Seek medical attention, keep documentation of the injury, and consult a personal injury attorney to protect your rights.
For Atlanta residents experiencing shoulder pain after an accident, contact Accidentes 911 at 470-855-4029. Our experienced team at Georgia Spine & Orthopaedics will provide early diagnosis and effective treatment for a speedy recovery.
Don’t ignore shoulder pain. Proper medical care and adherence to recommended treatments can have a significant impact on your recovery journey. Call us today to schedule your appointment and ensure you receive the care you need to restore your quality of life.
