Four common shoulder injuries occurring after car accidents

On Behalf of | Nov 13, 2023 | Car Accident Injuries |

Car accidents happen in West Virginia each day. From minor collisions to severe ones, the aftermath of motor vehicle accidents often leads to injuries., which often include shoulder and other upper-body injuries.

Brachial plexus injuries

Car accident injuries sometimes lead to nerve damage. If a collision injures your shoulder, you could experience damage to your brachial plexus, which is partially responsible for hand, arm and shoulder mobility. Injuries to this part of the body often lead to tingling, weakness or paralysis throughout the affected arm.

A torn rotator cuff

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that allows your arm and shoulder to rotate freely. If a motor vehicle accident causes severe impacts, they can often tear someone’s rotator cuff. Medical professionals typically classify this injury as a partial or full-thickness tear.

Shoulder dislocations

Another type of shoulder trauma occurs when a humerus dislocation occurs. This injury can happen when two or more vehicles collide, with the impact pushing this bone out of the socket of the shoulder blade. Treating this injury requires putting the humerus bone back into place, which may require surgery.

Bursitis

The shoulder, like all joints, is surrounded by bursa, which are sacs of fluid. These fluid sacs cushion the shoulder’s bones and soft tissues while reducing friction for tendons and ligaments. After a car accident, inflammation can occur in the bursa.

Shoulder injuries can happen in many ways, especially after motor vehicle accidents. It’s vital to seek medical attention after a car accident, even if you’re not in severe pain. This visit lets a medical expert use their knowledge and tools to diagnose and treat your injuries professionally.