A car accident is typically the last thing you expect to happen when you are going about your day. Suddenly, another driver runs into your vehicle from behind, and you now face the stresses of dealing with a car accident. From insurance reports to car repairs, the last thing you may be worried about is your health. However, a car accident can lead to aches and pains that need to be checked out by a doctor. If you have been in a car wreck, then visit your local auto accident chiropractors for a thorough examination. It can take hours or even days for you to begin experiencing pain after a car accident. One common cause of pain is a shoulder injury from a car accident. Here’s what you need to know about shoulder pain after a car accident and how a car accident doctor can help:
Common Reasons for Shoulder Pain After a Car Accident
Pain in a joint like the shoulder can quickly impact your quality of life and ability to go about your daily routine. You may not realize just how often you rely on your shoulders for even the smallest movements, like pulling open a door or driving your car. Below you will find 5 common shoulder injuries from car accidents.
Seat Belt Injury
One of the most common reasons for shoulder pain after a car accident is a seat belt injury. When worn properly, a seat belt should start above your shoulder, cross your chest, and buckle at your opposite hip. Seat belts are designed to prevent you from serious injury during a car accident, like getting ejected from the vehicle. However, it is possible to sustain an injury from the seat belt. From minor scrapes and burns to soft tissue damage, the tension of the seat belt as your body strains against it can lead to a shoulder injury.
Torn Rotator Cuff
A torn rotator cuff is a type of shoulder injury that occurs more often during high-impact car accidents. The rotator cuff refers to the part of the shoulder joint that attaches the humerus, or arm bone, to the shoulder blade. When functioning properly, the rotator cuff is what allows your shoulder joint to rotate and for you to lift your arm. A torn rotator cuff from a car accident may cause pain when you try to move the shoulder joint. You may also hear a cracking or popping sound when you try to move your affected shoulder and arm.
Dislocation
The shoulder is a ball and socket joint, which can become dislocated during the event of a car accident. The sudden force of impact may cause your upper body to strain against the seat belt, or the airbag may deploy and force your upper body back into the seat. A sudden blow to the shoulder from part of the car, like hitting your shoulder against the dashboard or window, can also lead to a shoulder dislocation. A shoulder dislocation must be treated as soon as possible to avoid muscle damage or other chronic issues.
Fracture
The clavicle, or collarbone, and humerus, or arm bone, are joined together by the shoulder joint. If either of these bones breaks, it is known as a fracture. A fracture to the collarbone or arm bone can cause swelling, significant pain, and a restricted range of motion. There are many types of fractures, also commonly referred to as broken bones. A hairline fracture refers to a crack in the bone, while a compound fracture refers to a broken bone that breaks the skin. A fracture from a car accident will require immediate medical attention to help reset the bone correctly.
Whiplash
Whiplash, the most common of all car accident injuries, can cause head, neck, shoulder, and arm pain. While most people associate whiplash with neck pain and headaches, this complex injury can actually affect your upper body as well. Injury to the spine in your neck can negatively impact nerves and soft tissues that support the rest of the body, including the shoulders joints. If another car rear-ends your vehicle, your head, neck, and upper body may be flung forward and backward rather violently. This can put a lot of stress and strain on your entire musculoskeletal system.
Treating Shoulder Pain After a Car Accident
At AICA Orthopedics, we offer a wide range of treatment options for shoulder pain. If you suffered a shoulder injury in a car accident, our team of doctors will provide you with conservative, non-surgical treatment options, when possible, to help you avoid surgery. Here are examples of how we treat shoulder pain after a car accident.
Diagnostic Imaging
First, our team of car accident doctors will utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging tools to diagnose your injuries. We offer X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans that provide your auto accident doctor with a highly detailed look at how your injuries have impacted your musculoskeletal system. Diagnostic imaging helps support the diagnosis and inform your personalized treatment plan.
At-Home Remedies
For mild shoulder pain, your car accident doctor may recommend at-home remedies to help reduce your discomfort. This may include a combination of rest, cold compresses, and applying heat to the affected area. Your doctor may also talk to you about over-the-counter medications to help reduce your pain and inflammation in the shoulder.
Chiropractic Care
Auto accident chiropractors treat a wide range of car accident injuries, including what causes your shoulder pain. Chiropractors don’t just treat neck and back issues; they also work with your bones, joints, muscles, and other soft tissues to help you experience lasting pain relief. A chiropractor can help realign your shoulder joint and provide hands-on shoulder pain treatment options without the use of medications.
Physical Therapy
Your car accident doctor may recommend physical therapy to help you recover after a shoulder injury from a car accident. A physical therapist can help you regain your strength and mobility in your shoulder so you can heal and recover effectively.
Visit AICA Orthopedics in Lithia Springs to learn more about how our team of multi-specialty doctors can help you find lasting relief from shoulder pain after a car accident!