Personal Injury Law Blog

Have you ever stepped out of your vehicle after a minor fender-bender, feeling just fine, only to wake up the next day to stiffness and pain? That is the deceptive nature of soft tissue injuries; they can be silent but significant. Such injuries are often overshadowed by more apparent injuries after a car accident, such as fractures or lacerations. It is crucial, however, not to ignore soft tissue injuries after a crash for several reasons.

What are Soft Tissue Injuries?

Soft tissue injuries refer to damage to muscles, ligaments and tendons resulting from a traumatic event, such as a car accident. These injuries can range from minor strains to more severe sprains and contusions. They often manifest in the hours, days or weeks after a collision.

One of the most common types of soft tissue injuries sustained in collisions is whiplash, which involves the neck muscles. It occurs due to the rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck and head during impact. Whiplash produces a variety of symptoms, such as headaches, stiffness, blurred vision and memory problems. Without proper treatment, the injury can result in complications in serious cases.

Why don’t we give soft tissue injuries the attention they deserve? They often lack immediate, visible signs like blood or broken bones sticking out. If left untreated, however, soft tissue injuries can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility. 

How to Identify Soft Tissue Injuries After a Car Accident

After a collision, you may not feel pain immediately when your adrenaline is pumping. Car accident victims should look for symptoms like swelling, bruising or limited range of motion. They can all indicate a soft tissue injury. Remember, just like a silent alarm, these symptoms can signal a problem before it becomes severe.

Don’t play the waiting game with your health. A thorough medical evaluation after a car accident is pivotal, even if you feel fine. Healthcare professionals have the expertise to identify soft tissue injuries that may not immediately present symptoms. Seeing a doctor is also vital for documenting your injuries, should you need to make a personal injury claim.

Filing a personal injury claim allows you to recover compensation for your crash-related injuries. Medical records, symptom diaries and photos are examples of evidence that can bolster your case. Medical documentation from your doctor becomes even more crucial when your soft tissue injuries are not immediately visible.

Treatment and Recovery for Soft Tissue Injuries

First aid for soft tissue injuries usually involves resting the injured area and applying ice to decrease swelling. While this basic approach can alleviate symptoms and jumpstart the healing process for certain injuries, be sure to see a doctor who can tailor a treatment plan to your needs.

Depending on the severity, you may need physical therapy or other interventions for a full recovery. Without proper medical care, some soft tissue injuries can lead to long-term discomfort or chronic pain. Recovery times vary depending on the injury’s severity, but most soft tissue injuries can take several weeks to a few months to heal fully with proper treatment.

Soft tissue injuries may be less dramatic than other crash-related injuries, but their effects can be just as profound. Besides being painful, they can also take an emotional toll. Taking soft tissue injuries seriously from the get-go can mean a smoother and quicker recovery from your car accident injuries. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel no pain, and follow up with detailed documentation of all medical visits, treatments and related expenses.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

Consulting an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options after a car accident. Even if your soft tissue injuries may not be immediately apparent after a crash, they still warrant compensation. The party responsible for causing the injuries can be held accountable for your medical expenses, rehabilitation, time off work and other related costs. Do not let the hidden nature of soft tissue injuries prevent you from pursuing the compensation you deserve.

Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is dedicated to helping clients navigate the legal process after a Chicago car accident. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.