A car accident can leave victims with a range of injuries, some of which may not be immediately visible. Among the most common are soft tissue injuries – damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons that can cause significant pain and mobility issues. While they might seem less severe than broken bones, soft tissue injuries can require extensive treatment and impact daily life for weeks or even months.
What Is a Soft Tissue Injury?
Soft tissue injuries are common in auto accidents and refer to damage affecting muscles, ligaments, or tendons. These injuries can be painful and sometimes take longer to heal than fractures.
Whiplash is one of the most common soft tissue injuries caused by an accident. It occurs when the neck is violently jerked forward and backward upon impact, leading to swelling, pain, and tenderness. The severity of a soft tissue injury varies, with some cases causing chronic pain and long-term mobility issues.
Common Soft Tissue Injuries
There are multiple soft tissue injuries that may affect auto accident victims. The most common include:
- Contusions – Also known as bruising, these occur from blunt force trauma. For example, your chest may hit the airbag or the steering wheel and may result in bruising.
- Sprains – A sprain happens when a ligament is stretched or torn, often due to sudden twisting movements. Common areas affected include the knees, ankles, and wrists.
- Muscle strains – Strains occur when there is an overstretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon, leading to pain and weakness. The most common strains include wrist, knee, and ankle strains.
- Whiplash – A neck injury caused by rapid movement during an accident, whiplash can lead to stiffness, headaches, and chronic pain.
What Are the Symptoms of Soft Tissue Injuries?
The symptoms of a soft tissue injury may depend on the injury itself. However, there are common symptoms that include most soft tissue injuries:
- Pain – Ranging from mild discomfort to severe, persistent pain at the site of injury
- Bruising – Visible discoloration due to blood pooling beneath the skin
- Stiffness – Difficulty moving the affected area without pain
- Muscle weakness – A reduction in strength and mobility, making everyday activities challenging
- Limited range of motion – Some injuries, such as whiplash, may restrict movement in the affected area
Are Soft Tissue Injuries Serious?
While some soft tissue injuries heal with rest and physical therapy, others can be serious and require the care of a doctor. If left untreated, serious soft tissue injuries can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility. Seeking prompt medical attention is essential for proper diagnosis and recovery.
Compensation for Soft Tissue Injuries
A person who has soft tissue injuries from an accident caused by another person may be entitled to compensation. The amount awarded depends on the severity of the injury, medical expenses, lost wages, and the impact on daily life. More serious injuries often result in higher compensation claims.
Get Help From Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys
If you suffer from soft tissue injuries because of an accident caused by another person, Towey Law PLLC is here to help you claim the compensation that may be due for your injuries. The first consultation is free. Schedule your consultation now to learn more.