Soft tissue injuries affect the muscles, ligaments and tendons, which are the body’s connective tissues. Symptoms can include significant pain, discomfort and functional limitations. Unlike broken bones or other visible injuries, soft tissue injuries are often internal and not apparent on the surface. Yet, they are among the most frequent injuries suffered in car accidents. It is usually necessary to assemble other forms of evidence to prove the victim’s entitlement to financial compensation.

Whiplash is a syndrome that often afflicts victims of car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. The neck is forcefully jerked back and forth by the force of an impact. The rapid movement strains or tears the muscles and ligaments in the neck. Symptoms are pain, stiffness, headaches, reduced range of motion and — in severe cases — long-term chronic pain or neurological effects. Whiplash is typically not diagnosable by means of an MRI or other technologies, yet the pain and limitations are very real.

Contusions, or bruises, occur when small blood vessels under the skin rupture, causing discoloration, swelling, and tenderness. They can result from a direct impact, such as a part of the body striking the dashboard, steering wheel, door or other object — even an airbag. While most bruises heal on their own, severe ones may require medical intervention if they affect deeper tissues or muscles.

Acute trauma from an accident can cause tendonitis (the inflammation of connecting tissues) as well as bursitis (the inflammation of small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones near joints). Both conditions can produce pain and swelling and may make it difficult to move the affected body part. Victims may require intensive treatment and long-term rehabilitation to regain pain-free motility over time.

Car crash victims may suffer partial or complete rupture of muscle fibers. Symptoms of muscle tears are swelling, bruising and loss of function in the injured area. They can require extensive physical therapy and, in some cases, surgical intervention.

Seeking a full medical evaluation immediately after an accident is essential for identifying the type and severity of any soft tissue injuries. Many of these injuries may not manifest symptoms right away but can worsen over time if left untreated. A thorough medical diagnosis can establish the cause and extent of injuries, which is critical for victims pursuing compensation in a automobile accident lawsuit. Documenting these injuries promptly helps victims assemble the evidence necessary to recover damages from the party at fault for the accident.

The law firm of Rubino, Ruman, Crosmer & Polen, located in Dyer, Indiana, is experienced in helping accident victims recover compensation for soft tissue injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in an automobile collision, call us at 219-227-4631 or contact us online to set up a free initial consultation.