Shoulder injuries from a car crash: protect it, then move it
How an orthopedic shoulder specialist and a physical therapist approach stability and motion
Shoulder pain after a crash may come from a dislocation or a separation near the collarbone. A broken bone or a hurt tendon can also cause it. These injuries don’t all follow the same recovery plan. An orthopedic specialist figures out which part of the shoulder is injured. A physical therapist helps you get movement back once the injury is ready for it. [1, 2, 3]
Find out exactly what happened to your shoulder
In a dislocation, the upper arm bone has slipped out of the shoulder socket. A separation affects the joint near the end of the collarbone. A rotator cuff injury harms the tendons that help you raise and control the arm. Ask which of these you have and whether you need imaging or another exam later. A shoulder that has been put back in place may still not be fully healed. The tissue around it may be hurt too. [1, 2, 3]
Rest the arm with a plan to move it again
You may have gone home with a sling or an immobilizer, a brace that holds the arm still. Ask how long to wear it, when it can come off and which elbow, wrist and hand movements are allowed. Find out when shoulder exercises should start and who will teach them. Depending on the injury, starting too soon can cause problems. So can keeping the shoulder still for too long. Stick with the plan made for you. [1, 2]
Get prompt medical advice for new numbness in the arm or hand, or for fingers that turn cold or change color. The same goes for weakness that is getting worse, severe pain or a sudden big loss of movement. A shoulder that looks out of place needs an urgent exam. Do not try to put it back in place yourself. [1, 2]
Turn your limits into daily routines
Ask how to get dressed, sleep, bathe and carry things safely. With only one working arm, you may need help cooking or caring for children. That can be true even if the injury is called “minor.” Does your job involve lifting or reaching overhead? Ask for written limits and a date to review them. Your plan should describe tasks as well as pain. [1, 2]
At your next visit, say whether you can raise the arm, reach behind your back and sleep without pain waking you. If weakness or pain hangs on, ask if the diagnosis needs a second look. A rotator cuff problem may call for a different plan than a simple bruise. [3]
- Which part of my shoulder was injured?
- When can I take off the sling, and when can I start each movement?
- What change means I should come in sooner?
Check your sling instructions today
Sources and further reading
- 1MedlinePlus dislocated shoulder aftercare
- 2MedlinePlus shoulder separation aftercare
- 3MedlinePlus rotator cuff injuries
Written for general education from orthopedic and physical therapy viewpoints. A shoulder that looks deformed needs a prompt medical exam. So do severe pain and new weakness or numbness in the arm.
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