Labral Tear in the Shoulder After a Car Accident

The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, where the ball part of the upper arm bone fits into a shallow socket in the shoulder blade. The labrum is a piece of cartilage that forms a cup for the ball part of the joint to sit in. It helps stabilize the shoulder joint and enables movement. 

A labral tear occurs when part of this cartilage is torn. This can happen during car accidents due to the forceful impact or abrupt movements.

What are the symptoms of a labral tear in the shoulder after a car accident?

A labral tear in the shoulder can present various symptoms, depending on the severity and location of the tear. Common symptoms include:

• Shoulder pain: This is often the most noticeable symptom. The pain is usually felt in the shoulder joint and can range from a dull ache to a sharp, intense pain. It may worsen with shoulder movements or when lifting objects.
• Limited range of motion: The shoulder might feel stiff, limiting your ability to move it through its full range of motion. This can affect daily activities, such as reaching overhead or behind your back.
• Catching or locking sensation: Some people with a labral tear experience a catching or locking sensation in the shoulder, especially when moving the arm in certain ways.
• Instability: The shoulder may feel loose, as if it might pop out of place. This sensation often occurs because the labrum is important for stabilizing the shoulder joint.
• Clicking or grinding sounds: You might hear a clicking, grinding, or popping noise when moving your shoulder.

The recovery time for a labral tear varies depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment methods used. Non-surgical treatments might take several weeks to months for recovery. The focus here is on reducing pain and inflammation and strengthening the muscles around the shoulder to compensate for the torn labrum.

Here are some common treatments:

• Rest and activity modification.
• Physical therapy.
• Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.
• Applying ice to the shoulder.
• Corticosteroid injections.
• Alternative therapies such as acupuncture or massage.

How does labral tear surgery and recovery work?

In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the torn labrum. The most common procedure is called arthroscopic surgery, which is minimally invasive. This procedure involves making small incisions around the shoulder and inserting a tiny camera and instruments to repair the tear.

Recovery from labral tear surgery is a gradual process. Initially, the focus is on protecting the shoulder as it heals, which typically involves wearing a sling. Physical therapy is a crucial component of the recovery process, starting with gentle exercises to increase range of motion and gradually moving to strengthening exercises. 

If surgery is required, full recovery and return to normal activities can take several months, and in some cases, up to a year.

If you've suffered a labral tear in a car accident due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. This compensation can cover damages such as:

• Medical expenses: This includes all costs related to the treatment of the labral tear, such as doctor's visits, surgery, physical therapy, medications, and any necessary medical equipment.
• Lost wages: If the injury and recovery period cause you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost wages. This also includes any potential loss of earning capacity if the injury leads to long-term disability.
• Pain and suffering: This covers the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. It acknowledges that not all damages are financial and compensates for the overall impact on your quality of life.
• Other damages: Depending on the case, you might also be entitled to other forms of compensation, such as loss of enjoyment of life or punitive damages in cases of gross negligence.

To claim compensation, it’s important to establish liability and prove that the injury is a direct result of the car accident. This process involves gathering evidence, which might include medical records, witness statements, police reports, and possibly expert testimony.

How do I get legal assistance for a labral tear after a car accident?

To get compensated for a labral tear in the shoulder after a car accident, you’ll need to file a personal injury claim. First, make sure you get immediate medical attention and an official diagnosis. This will create a clear link between your labral tear and the car accident you were involved in. 

Then, you’ll need to report your car accident to your insurance company. Once you’ve done that, get in contact with an experienced car accident lawyer who can handle the complex claims process. Be sure to listen to the advice provided by your attorney and doctor to ensure a successful claim. 

Avoid speaking to the other driver’s insurance company. Anything you say to them can jeopardize your claim or result in low-balling your compensation. If they contact you, let them know that you have legal representation. All further communications should be done through your lawyer.

Getting fully compensated for a shoulder injury after a car accident requires the help of a skilled Law.com Premier Attorney. Our verified lawyers will take an inclusive approach to handling your claim. They’ll also fight tirelessly to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

Getting legal representation won’t cost you any money upfront. Premier Attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t have to break the bank. You only pay if they’re able to successfully secure compensation on your behalf. To get started, contact a Premier Attorney in your area for a free consultation.