Motorcycle injuries impact many areas of the body. Shoulder injuries are common, especially when the bike hits the ground at an angle, creating a direct impact on the shoulder. Other times, shoulder injuries occur as a result of twisting and stretching of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in this area.
Types of Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries can make it hard to drive, reach, or raise your hands above your head. The pain can have a significant impact on your overall quality of life. Some of the most common shoulder injuries associated with motorcycle accidents include shoulder dislocation, fractures of the shoulder bones, a torn rotator cuff, and a frozen shoulder.
Shoulder Dislocation
As a person lands on their shoulder, the joint pops out of the socket—creating intense pain and damage to the muscles in this area. A deformity can occur of the shoulder, making it impossible to move the joint. Dislocation tends to be obvious from a visual exam, but nearly always causes significant pain and the inability to move the shoulder at all. Some people will experience muscle weakness and numbness. Treatment may include moving the joint back into alignment. Surgery may be helpful in some cases. Some may need rehab to regain function.
Fractures of the Shoulder Bones
Some people fall on the shoulder causing it to fracture or shatter. The clavicle, or the collarbone, along with the upper portion of the arm or the shoulder blade can be broken on impact. Fractures are hard to see but tend to be very painful. Most often, the pain is debilitating.
Fracture and breakage repairs may require the replacement of the joint bones, the placement of pins to hold the pieces together, or immobilization to give the bone time to heal. Rehabilitation and surgery are both possible.
Torn Rotator Cuff
The rotator cuff can tear. This tendon is critical to holding your upper arm into place at the shoulder joint. It is what helps you to turn, lift, and rotate your arm. The pain is significant in these injuries especially when you try to use the shoulder. Surgery is often needed. This injury can have a long rehabilitation process as well.
Frozen Shoulder
A frozen shoulder indicates that there is pain that’s significantly at the location of the shoulder joint. It may feel stiff and impossible to move. This occurs when the connective tissues in the shoulder joint build up scar tissue. Treatment typically includes limited use, allowing for healing over numerous months, and sometimes surgery.
Potential Damages in a Shoulder Injury Case
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident and suffered a shoulder injury, you may be able to obtain compensation for your losses such as:
- Emergency room services
- Surgical procedures
- Rehabilitation
- All medical costs associated with the accident
- Physical therapy and medication
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Protect Your Rights by Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you’re facing shoulder injuries from a motorcycle accident in Nebraska, reach out to our motorcycle accident attorney. Let us work to protect your losses. Take these steps:
- Contact your Nebraska motorcycle lawyer for a free consultation.
- Let our team gather evidence in your case.
- Allow our lawyer to help you to determine how extensive your injuries are.
- Let us file a claim with the insurance company.
- Don’t talk about your accident or injuries to anyone else.
- Avoid speaking to the insurance adjuster. Divert those calls and questions to us.
- Work with our team to file your claim in a court of law, as needed.
There’s a lot on the line. You don’t want to make a mistake to cost you your compensation. The Law Office of Matthew A. Lathrop, PC, LLO provides you with exceptional care and attention to each of your needs. If you’ve suffered a motorcycle accident shoulder injury, call for a consultation. We’re here to help.
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