The Nature of Soft Tissue Injuries

Injuries to soft tissues, such as the muscles, tendons and ligaments, are all too common in car accidents. The impact of a crash followed by the bracing of the body and sudden braking can lead the soft tissues to stretch, resulting in soreness, strains, sprains and even tears. Victims of soft tissue injuries in Mississippi will want to know more about the nature of this type of trauma.

One of the most important things to know is that soft tissue injuries are hard to diagnose compared to hard tissue injuries, which involve the bones and cartilage. X-rays cannot detect them, and the symptoms themselves may not be felt until days after the accident. The symptoms of soft tissue injuries can range from bleeding and persistent swelling to a loss of motor functions.

Whiplash is probably the most well-known example of a soft tissue injury. Victims of rear-end collisions often get whiplash when their heads snap forward and back, straining the tissues in the neck. They may suffer from chronic pain, stiffness and headaches or even a herniated disc in the spine. The pain could even reach down to the shoulders and back. In serious cases, victims report neurological issues like memory loss as well as increased moments of nervousness, fatigue and depression.

Soft tissue injuries should be treated as soon as possible. Getting treatment quickly will not only facilitate healing but also help victims in the event that they file a personal injury claim. When these injuries arise from the actions of a negligent driver, victims can consult with an accident attorney, who can, in turn, hire investigators to find all the proof required for a valid claim. Lawyers could also bring in medical experts if necessary. They can then negotiate on their clients’ behalf with the auto insurance companies, taking the case to court if a settlement cannot be agreed upon.