What Are the Common Causes of Shoulder Pain Following a Car Accident?

Car accidents affect victims in many ways, and one of the most frequently overlooked consequences is shoulder pain. While people often assume that pain will fade with time, shoulder injuries can worsen if left untreated, leading to chronic discomfort and limited mobility. 

The shoulder is a complex joint made up of muscles, ligaments, bones, and tendons—all of which can be damaged by sudden force during a collision. After understanding this impact and the risks involved, it becomes clear that shoulder pain should never be ignored. It is important to recognize the reasons for shoulder pain after a car accident so that victims can identify serious injuries early and seek the right treatment.

Even a low-speed crash can transfer tremendous force to the upper body. Bracing against the steering wheel, tightening up before impact, or being jolted sideways by a seatbelt can lead to painful injuries. Some symptoms may appear immediately, while others take days or weeks to surface. Because delays in treatment can make injuries harder to recover from, knowing what causes shoulder pain is essential for both medical care and any personal injury claim that may follow.

Below are some of the most common reasons victims experience shoulder pain after being involved in a vehicle collision.

1. Whiplash-Related Shoulder Injuries

Whiplash occurs when the neck and head are violently thrown back and forth. Although it is commonly thought of as a neck injury, the sudden whipping motion can also strain the shoulder muscles and tendons.

Possible symptoms include:

• Radiating pain from the neck into the shoulders and upper back
• Tightness or stiffness in the shoulder area
• Headaches and dizziness
• Limited range of motion

Whiplash symptoms may not appear immediately, making it important to seek evaluation even if pain is minimal at first.

2. Rotator Cuff Damage

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help stabilize the shoulder joint. During a collision, this area can tear when a driver braces against the steering wheel or when the arm is forcefully pulled.

Signs of injury may include:

• Pain when lifting or rotating the arm
• Weakness or difficulty holding objects
• Clicking or popping sounds during movement
• Pain that worsens when lying on the affected side

Minor tears may heal with rest and therapy, but severe cases may require surgery.

3. Shoulder Dislocation

A shoulder dislocation happens when the upper arm bone pops out of its socket due to the force of impact. This injury is extremely painful and may be accompanied by visible deformity.

Symptoms include:

• Intense pain and inability to move the shoulder
• Swelling or bruising
• Numbness or tingling down the arm
• A noticeable bump near the joint

Immediate emergency medical care is usually necessary to relocate the joint.

4. Fractured Collarbone or Shoulder Blade

Fractures occur when bones are unable to withstand intense pressure. Seatbelt restraints or striking the steering wheel or dashboard commonly lead to broken collarbones, while shoulder blade fractures result from more severe impact.

Common signs include:

• Sharp, intense pain when moving the arm
• Swelling, bruising, and inflammation
• Grinding or cracking sounds during movement
• Visible deformity or a protruding bone

Imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans are needed for accurate diagnosis.

5. Brachial Plexus Nerve Injury

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves running from the neck into the shoulders and arms. Sudden stretching or compression during a crash can cause nerve damage.

Symptoms include:

• Electric shock or burning sensation in the arm
• Numbness or weakness
• Tingling in fingers or hand
• Loss of muscle control in severe cases

Nerve injuries can take months to recover and may result in long-term complications if untreated.

Key Takeaways

• Shoulder pain after a car accident can be a sign of serious injury that requires medical attention.
• Common causes include whiplash, rotator cuff tears, dislocation, fractures, and nerve damage.
• Symptoms may develop gradually, so ongoing monitoring is crucial.
• Early diagnosis and proper documentation help support medical recovery and legal claims.
• Never accept a settlement without understanding the full extent of your injury and treatment needs.