An Auto Accident Attorney Discusses Torn Rotator Cuffs
Whether you’re hit from behind, the front, or on the side, a jarring motion that happens upon impact can result in a range of injuries to your upper body.
One of these injuries could be a torn rotator cuff.
What is a torn rotator cuff?
According to Healthline, the rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that connect as tendons to help your shoulder function. A tear happens when one of the muscles sustains an injury in an auto accident or from other trauma.
Symptoms
There are two kinds of rotator cuff tears: a partial tear and full-thickness tear. Symptoms may include a crackling or grinding sensation, pain that persists for more than a week, tenderness, reduced range of motion, weakness, and swelling.
To properly diagnose this injury, doctors usually order an imaging test such as an ultrasound, x-ray, or MRI.
Treatment
One’s treatment depends on the tear’s severity. If it’s mild, resting or physical therapy may be all that’s required. A larger tear will likely need one of three types of surgery: open repair, mini-open repair, or all-arthroscopic repair. All of these mean an extended recovery, and some patients suffer complications such as permanent stiffness.
Damages
It’s possible for victims to receive a settlement from the negligent driver’s insurance company that includes lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
If you sustained a rotator cuff tear in a motor vehicle accident, please contact us to discuss your case. We’ll fight hard to get you the money you deserve if you have a personal injury claim.