How Serious Are Rotator Cuff Injuries in an Accident?

Car accidents can cause a lot of damage to your body. With all the impact and force involved, it’s no surprise that injuries can occur. One of the most common injuries that can happen in an accident is a rotator cuff injury. As a crucial part of the shoulder, a rotator cuff injury can have a serious impact on your life. It can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty in performing even everyday tasks. Keep reading to explore just how serious rotator cuff injuries can be in an accident and the different types of treatments that can help.

Rotator Cuff Injuries Are Serious

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint that hold the bone in place. An injury to this area can range from a small strain to a complete tear. When an accident occurs, the shoulder can be jolted, twisted, or jerked in a sudden motion, causing tears, strains, and even dislocations. Because a rotator cuff injury affects movement and stability in the shoulder, it can severely impair your ability to perform everyday activities. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may need surgery, physical therapy—or both—to recover fully.

One of the main reasons why rotator cuff injuries are so serious is that they are more common in older adults. As you age, your muscles and tendons become weaker and more brittle, making them more susceptible to injuries. Additionally, the recovery time for a rotator cuff injury can be lengthy, taking weeks or even months to heal. During this time, it’s essential to avoid any actions that could cause further damage to the injury, which means limiting excessive shoulder movement and engaging in physical therapy exercises.

Even minor rotator cuff injuries can be painful and make it difficult to carry out everyday tasks. Depending on the severity of the injury, pain can be mild or severe, with some people reporting that they can no longer lift or move their arms after an injury. Additionally, some people may experience short-term numbness or loss of strength in their arms and hands, which can be temporary or long-lasting.

Treating a Rotator Cuff Injury

There are several treatment options available for people who have suffered a rotator cuff injury in a car accident. These range from non-surgical treatments such as rest, ice, and physical therapy, to more invasive procedures like surgery. Physical therapy is often an essential part of treatment as it can help to prevent further injury, alleviate pain, and improve strength and mobility in the affected area. Surgery may be necessary if the injury is severe or if it does not respond to other treatments. In any case, it’s important to seek medical advice to determine the best course of treatment.

Heal a Rotator Cuff Injury With the Help of Impact Medical Group

Rotator cuff injuries can be extremely serious in an accident, causing significant pain, discomfort, and difficulty performing daily tasks. They can affect people of all ages but can be more severe in older adults. Thankfully, there are different treatments available to help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and prevent further injury. If you’ve suffered a rotator cuff injury in a car accident, Impact Medical Group in Tampa is here to support your recovery process. Our team of medical professionals is available to provide customized medical care tailored to your needs, helping you return to your pre-injury status. Contact us today at (727) 292-0200 to receive personalized treatment and care.