Shoulder pain is common following a motor vehicle collision (MVC). While neck and back injuries often receive the most attention, the shoulder can be injured by the seat belt, direct impact, bracing against the steering wheel, or forces transmitted through the upper body.

Key Insight:

Shoulder pain after an MVC can come from muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, or nerves. A comprehensive examination can help identify the likely source and determine whether conservative treatment, diagnostic imaging, or referral is appropriate.

During a collision, drivers may tightly grip the steering wheel or straighten their arms to brace for impact. These forces can travel through the arms into the shoulders. The seat belt can also place force across the shoulder as it restrains the body.

Possible injuries include muscle strains, joint sprains, rotator cuff injuries, tendon irritation, and AC joint injuries. Shoulder symptoms may also originate from the cervical spine when nerves supplying the arm become irritated.

Symptoms may include pain when lifting the arm, weakness, stiffness, reduced range of motion, tenderness, clicking, or difficulty sleeping on the affected shoulder. Numbness or tingling into the arm or hand may indicate neurological involvement.

A chiropractic examination can assess shoulder movement, strength, joint function, orthopedic findings, and neurological function while also evaluating the neck and upper back. When a fracture, significant rotator cuff injury, dislocation, or other serious injury is suspected, diagnostic imaging or referral may be appropriate.

When conservative care is appropriate, chiropractic treatment may include joint mobilization or manipulation, soft tissue therapy, therapeutic exercise, stretching, and strengthening based on the individual injury.

Shoulder pain after an MVC should not be ignored, particularly when it persists, limits movement, or causes weakness. Early evaluation can help identify the structures involved and establish an appropriate rehabilitation plan.

Experiencing shoulder pain after a motor vehicle collision? Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and discuss an individualized treatment plan.

Contact Us:
Dr. Peter Britton, DC & Dr. Alyssa Lenox, DC
1111 N. Northgate Way
Seattle, WA 98133
Phone: 206-523-2225
Appointments can be made on our website: https://intouchwithhealthseattle.com/home

Sources:

• American College of Radiology. ACR Appropriateness Criteria: Acute Shoulder Pain.

• Ramirez J. Adhesive Capsulitis: Diagnosis and Management. American Family Physician.

• Lewis J. Rotator Cuff Related Shoulder Pain: Assessment, Management and Uncertainties. Manual Therapy.