With the rise in auto fatalities throughout 2015, thousands of people suffer serious injury every day in auto crashes. A common injury is one that that impinges, or compress, the rotator cuff tendon within their shoulder. Shoulder impingement, as it is called, is a painful complication that arises when an injury decreases the area between the rotator cuff and the acromion, which is the top bone on the shoulder. When this space is compressed, or made jagged by bone spurs, the rotator cuff tendon becomes pinched or is pulled over a surface with too much friction, causing pain and immobility, according to Orthoinfo. Shoulder decompression surgery is often the best option to increase mobility and decrease pain, although a non-surgical method of treatment is available too.
Medical Treatment of Shoulder Impingement
Upon examination, a doctor may attempt a non-surgical option if the space between the acromion and rotator cuff is enough to work with. This treatment may include cortisone injections to decrease inflammation. Cortisone injections, however, can cause tendons to become brittle and prone to tearing prematurely. Treatment may also include physical therapy, over the counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, and other types of rehabilitation to increase strength and mobility. Below is a list of nonsurgical treatment:
- Ice 15-20 minutes three times per day to decrease inflammation;
- Heat 15-20 minutes for pain and increased circulation;
- Electric stimulation;
- Ultrasound;
- Cortisone injections;
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories;
- Prescription pain medication; and
- Physical therapy.
Arthroscopic Shoulder Decompression Surgery
For those wishing to go the surgical route, arthroscopic shoulder decompression surgery has a high rate of success. In fact, it has an 85 percent rate of success in improving range of motion and decreasing pain, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Arthroscopic surgery involves a five millimeter incision into the shoulder. The surgeon then examines the tendons, bone, and muscle for damage or uneven surfaces. Bone spurs and rough surfaces are smoothed out to provide less friction for the rotator cuff to move across. Arthroscopic surgery takes less time to recover from than open surgery, and most patients return to normal activities within just one week to three months. A sling may be worn during recovery, along with the use of pain medication, and, later down the road, physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength.
The Law Offices of Ohio Car Accident Lawyers Are Here to Help
Car accidents are often unavoidable even for the safest, most conscientious drivers. If you or a family member were involved in an auto accident that was no fault of your own and suffered a shoulder impingement injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. These damages may include payment for your medical bills, future procedures, pain and suffering, lost wages, and property damage. To ensure you receive the maximum compensation, contact an experienced Cleveland, Ohio auto accident attorney today at the law offices of Ohio Car Accident Lawyers . Get in touch with one of our attorneys today so you can begin down the path of financial recovery. We are here for you in this unfortunate time of pain.
