Quick Answer Shoulder injuries from car accidents — rotator cuff tears, labral tears, impingement — are commonly caused by the bracing mechanism (gripping the steering wheel on impact). Diagnosis requires shoulder MRI. MAIC provides same-day evaluation, on-site MRI, and orthopedic consultation in the Bronx. Call (888) 991-5290.

How Car Accidents Cause Shoulder Injuries

Shoulder injuries in car accidents result from several mechanisms: seatbelt restraint forces that compress the shoulder against the chest wall; airbag deployment impact against the outstretched arm; bracing against the steering wheel or door at the moment of impact; and occupant restraint causing traction forces on the shoulder joint. Each of these mechanisms preferentially injures different shoulder structures.

Common Shoulder Injuries

  • rotator cuff tear: Tear of one or more of the four rotator cuff tendons, causing pain, weakness, and limited overhead motion
  • SLAP tear: Tear of the superior labrum, causing deep shoulder pain, clicking, and instability
  • Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injury: Separation of the AC joint from direct impact or seatbelt forces
  • Shoulder impingement: Compression of rotator cuff tendons in the subacromial space following traumatic inflammation
  • Biceps tendon injury: Partial or complete tear of the long head of the biceps tendon

MRI and Treatment at MAIC

Shoulder MRI — with arthrogram when labral pathology is suspected — provides definitive diagnosis of all shoulder injuries. MAIC's orthopedic surgeons provide causation opinions and surgical consultation for shoulder injuries. Call (888) 991-5290.