Rotator Cuff Tears from a Car Accident
When you think of injuries associated with car accidents, broken bones, and lacerations may be the first things to come to mind. However, just as common—and often just as painful and debilitating—are tears, strains, and sprains to the various muscles and tendons that may unnaturally stretch or become tense during a car crash.
Rotator cuff tears in Virginia car accidents can be particularly harmful, as well as sometimes difficult to identify and properly treat. If you suspect or know you suffered this kind of injury due to an accident caused by a negligent driver, you should speak with a skilled car wreck attorney about recovering compensation for your associated bills and losses.
Signs of a Rotator Cuff Injury
Within each shoulder, there are various ligaments and muscles which allow for movement of the arms and help stabilize the head and neck. The rotator cuff has several muscles and tendons within and around the shoulder joint, which collectively are susceptible to damage from sudden twisting or turning.
Anyone in Virginia who experiences any of the following symptoms after a car wreck may be suffering from a rotator cuff injury:
- Aches and/or pain in the upper and outer portions of the shoulder and arms, especially if pain occurs suddenly when moving in certain ways
- Difficulty raising their arms above their head or reaching behind their back
- Muscle weakness, particularly in their shoulders
- Popping or clicking sounds when moving their arms or shoulders
- Sensitivity to pressure on the shoulder, particularly when trying to sleep
These may be signs that one of the tendons in the rotator cuff has been strained or torn. A doctor can typically diagnose this condition with an X-ray or ultrasound examination. Additionally, while physical therapy exercises can help an injured person recover from mild sprains, more serious rotator cuff injuries may require invasive joint surgery.
How Do Shoulder Injuries Occur in Car Accidents?
Although rotator cuff damage can occur in any car accident in VA, this type of injury is most commonly seen in rear-end collisions. When someone’s vehicle gets hit from behind, they may instinctively brace themselves just before the accident occurs, leaving their shoulders in an unnaturally tense position. This can cause the shoulders to absorb a disproportionate amount of the resulting impact, leading to torn ligaments and other damage to their musculature.
It is sometimes difficult to prove that a torn rotator cuff occurred specifically because of a car crash, as these injuries more commonly result from athletic or occupational overuse. Failure to provide sufficient medical documentation and other evidence of liability may result in an insurance company rejecting a claim based on a rotator cuff injury. A qualified car accident lawyer could help gather evidence and prepare a claim that allows an injured party to recover the compensation they need.
Learn More About Recovering for a Torn Rotator Cuff Caused by a VA Car Accident
Damage to shoulder muscles and tendons can be uniquely debilitating, in terms of both physical pain and difficulties recovering compensation from insurance companies and civilly liable parties. As a result, you should contact an attorney for help if you suffered a rotator cuff tear in a Virginia car accident. Get in touch with our team today and schedule a free case consultation.
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