Tendons are strong bands of fibrous connective tissues that can be damaged in a car accident. Some are torn because of a direct blow to the area (such as a knee striking the dashboard) and some might be torn as the tendon is twisted upon impact. Certain parts of the body are more susceptible to these types of injuries in a collision.
Common types of torn tendons:
- Rotator Cuff Tear: Shoulder injuries, such as a torn rotator cuff may occur in crashes such as a major collision on Interstate 25 in Denver. The rotator cuff is what keeps the shoulder in its socket and covers the head of the humerus (upper arm bone). It’s what allows someone to rotate and lift his or her arm.So when this is damaged, it can cause extreme pain. In a partial tear, conservative treatment may be enough. This could include rest, medication, physical therapy or even steroid injections. But if it’s a complete tear or the symptoms continue after a few months, surgery could be necessary.
- Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Tear: The knees are another common part of the body to suffer a tear in a car accident. A PCL tear involves the inside of the knee joint. It’s oftentimes accompanied by other ligament injuries. It can cause swelling, pain and instability. As with a rotator cuff tear, typically nonsurgical treatment is tried first and if it becomes necessary, surgery will be performed.
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear: Another part of the knee that can experience a tear is the ACL. This might occur when there is a sudden twisting motion. This tendon is located in the center of the knee. Again, treatment depends on the extent of damage.
Effects of a Torn Tendon after a Car Accident
Torn tendons in the shoulder can cause temporary or long-term disability. A weakened shoulder makes performing even simple tasks difficult, including getting dressed or brushing hair. Of course, tears that require surgery extend the recovery time.
Injuries to the knee can be debilitating. This will certainly affect the individual’s ability to walk. But when surgery is necessary, it can take several weeks before someone can even return to work. Full recovery can be as long as six to 12 months.
What You Can Do If Another Driver’s Negligence Caused a Torn Tendon
These injuries can impact ability to work and even perform routine daily activities. Between the medical bills and missed time from work, it can create a huge financial burden. So if someone else is at fault for the accident and resultant injury, it’s important to take steps to preserve your rights to file a claim and recover damages.
This may include talking with an attorney, especially since you may be facing a temporary disability; you need to know the types of compensation you could be entitled to seek.
Gather all of the evidence you have regarding the car accident. But also collect medical records and documentation of lost wages. You will need to prove not only that the other driver was responsible for the accident, but the impact of your injuries and the damages you’ve experienced.
If you were injured in the Denver area and need legal help recovering compensation related to your torn tendon from the insurance company, talk to D.J. Banovitz. He helps accident victims pursue compensation that is fair so they are not left saddled with the financial burden of an accident. Set up your consultation today: 303-300-5060.