March 19, 2024

Rotator cuffs can tear in a car accident. This shoulder injury can restrict the sufferer’s range of motion and result in pain when performing daily tasks. Because of this, car accident victims who sustain this type of injury may need to go through long-term treatment or even a disability. As a result, they may have to fight for compensation from the party who caused the accident. This is where a houston car accident attorney can help them. A great lawyer will make sure the victim’s rights are protected and that they get the monetary financial they need for their medical treatment and as they go through life with a possible injury. 

The shoulder gets a wide range of motion because of the rotator cuff. A tear on this part of the body can be quite painful and seriously limit the ability of a person to move their arm and shoulder.  

How to Know You Have Torn Your Rotator Cuff

A rotator cuff torn presents symptoms such as serious or sudden pain in the top or outer sides of the shoulder, inability to raise your arm above your head, limited motion range, neck and upper back pain, sleep difficulties, as well as should weaknesses. If you have these symptoms, you should seek medical attention to confirm your condition. A physical shoulder exam and imaging like ultrasound or X-ray must be performed to diagnose rotator cuff tears. Getting immediate medical evaluation is important to have an accurate diagnosis. 

Moreover, your doctor will collect your medical history to know if you did not have any shoulder issues before the accident. You will need your medical injury documentation to prove that the accident caused your injury.

How Rotator Cuff Tears Happen in Car Accidents

Every type of car accident can result in rotator cuff tears; however, these injuries are quite common in rear-end collisions. In this type of car accident, you may get this injury when you look in the rearview mirror or hear the tires squealing behind you. Once you expect an impact, your shoulder can be put in an unrelaxed position. When the muscles are tense, your shoulder will absorb the force during an impact, leading to a rotator cuff tear. 

Rotator cuff tears are often associated with normal repetitive use and sports injuries, insurance companies may deny your injury claim after a car accident. It can be hard to prove your car accident caused the injury. But, an experienced attorney will increase your chances of recovering compensation for your rotator cuff tear.