Whiplash
Rear-ended car accidents almost always result in whiplash for those involved. The force of the impact from behind pushes the head forward and slams it backward, causing the muscles of the neck to be tight or sore. Whiplash, although significantly affecting the neck and back, can also radiate into the shoulders, leading to pain.
Torn Rotator Cuff
A high impact car accident can also lead to a torn rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is a grouping of four muscles that attach the humerus to the shoulder blade. The rotator cuff specifically helps to lift and rotate the arm. Signs of a torn rotator cuff can include pain when moving the shoulder a certain way, weakness when rotating or lifting the arm, a cracking sensation when moving the arm in different directions, or pain when lying on the injured shoulder.
Fractures
A car accident can result in a fracture of the clavicle or humerus. A fractured clavicle, or collarbone, will severely limit shoulder movement. Fracturing the humerus will lead to a very swollen shoulder as well decreased range of motion and significant pain.
Dislocation
Dislocation of the shoulder joint is also a common cause of shoulder pain because of a car accident. Shoulder dislocations can lead to muscle damage or chronic conditions if not treated properly.
Soft Tissue Damage
Although not as severe, soft tissue injuries can cause shoulder pain after a car accident. In fact, soft tissue damage from a car accident is more common than bone injuries. A SLAP tear is tearing of the labrum, or ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder joint. This tissue stabilizes the shoulder joint and serves as an attachment point for other ligaments in the shoulder. Trauma caused by a car accident can lead to tearing. Depending on the severity, the shoulder doctor may recommend noninvasive or invasive treatment for repair.
The underlying idea is that if there is damage to the car after an accident, there is more than likely damage to the body, including the shoulder. If you have any signs or symptoms of pain and injury to the shoulder from a car accident, it is imperative that you seek care from AICA orthopedic specialists to treat the injury and find relief from pain.
Treatment of Shoulder Injuries by Experienced Orthopedic Specialists
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body. Because of this, it is more susceptible to damage and injury. If you are experiencing symptoms of a shoulder injury after being involved in a car accident, such as significant sharp pain, deep bruising, tenderness, knotting, or weakness, a shoulder doctor at AICA Orthopedics can help. If you show signs of a shoulder injury, our expert shoulder doctors will first perform a thorough examination of the problem area to assess the injury and provide a precise diagnosis. Imaging devices such as X Rays or MRIs can assist in proper diagnosis and accurate treatment by providing an in-depth look at the area of concern. Shoulder doctors at AICA Orthopedics provide the very best in comprehensive care to ensure you receive high quality, detailed treatment to ease shoulder pain and heal injuries.
