In the unfortunate event of a car accident, people often speak of “soft tissue” injuries. So, what is “soft tissue?”
People speaking about soft tissue injuries in relation to accidents are usually referring to injuries such as the following:
- Sprains;
- Strains; and
- Bruises.
Sprains and strains are often confused. Although their symptoms are similar, involving pain, swelling, and inflammation, they involve different types of soft tissue.
Sprains are injuries to ligaments, the connective tissue that attaches bones to one another. Ligaments stabilize our joints, allowing them to move smoothly. Strains are injuries to other types of soft tissue, such as muscles or the tendons that connect muscles to bones. Additional symptoms of strains include muscle spasm, weakness, and cramping.
Sprains are diagnosed from grade 1 to grade 3. A grade 1 sprain is considered mild, usually involving only overstretching. Grade 2 sprains are considered moderate and involve partial tears. A grade 3 sprain is severe and usually involves a complete tear.
The medical term for a bruise is “contusion.” Bruises are the result of blood pooling at the site of an injury. If the skin is unbroken, the blood resulting from an injury cannot escape the body and therefore pools under the surface of the skin.
Mild soft tissue injuries of any form are usually treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, often known by the acronym “RICE.” More severe soft tissue injuries may involve therapy, bracing, or even surgery.
If you or a loved one have suffered a soft tissue injury due to someone else’s conduct, you may be entitled to compensation. It is particularly important that you see a medical professional as soon as symptoms develop, as medical records are usually needed to demonstrate the severity of the injury. The attorneys at Wright Pichon & Gray are experienced in litigating soft tissue injuries, and we will help guide you to a favorable resolution of your case. For a free case evaluation, contact us.