Thoracic Outlet Syndrome After A Car Accident
Thoracic outlet syndrome is when the blood vessels or nerves between your first rib and collarbone become compressed
After car accidents, it is common for victims to develop pains in areas like the hand, arm, and shoulder. In most cases, the cause of this pain is the herniation of the spinal discs, or stretching or tearing of the ligaments in the neck. The pain comes from the opening between the scalene muscles to the neck and the rib cage-area known as the thoracic outlet. When the blood vessels and nerves are squeezed near the thoracic outlet, it causes a condition known as thoracic outlet syndrome.
What Are Some Common Symptoms Of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Thoracic outlet syndrome after a car accident can occur from many different factors. It all depends on the accident. Car accidents happen to be one of the most common accidents these injuries occur in. A car accident can cause internal injuries that lead to compression of the nerves in the thoracic region.
The symptoms that a victim may experience differ widely depending on the type of thoracic outlet syndrome he or she has following the traumatic accident. No matter the severity always make sure to contact an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as you can.
The Main Symptoms
The main symptoms of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome are:
- Muscle wasting in the fleshy base of your thumb (Gilliatt-Sumner hand)
- Numbness or tingling in your arm or fingers
- Pain or aches in your neck, shoulder or hand
- Weakening grip
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms of vascular thoracic outlet syndrome (artery or vein) include:
- Discoloration of your hand (bluish color)
- Arm pain and swelling, possibly due to blood clots
- Blood clot in veins or arteries in the upper area of your body
- Lack of color (pallor) in one or more of your fingers or your entire hand
- Weak or no pulse in the affected arm
- Cold fingers, hands or arms
- Arm fatigue with activity
- Numbness or tingling in your fingers
- Weakness of arm or neck
Throbbing lump near your collarbone
In most cases, the symptoms do not show up immediately, and the accident victim can experience these symptoms several months after the accident. This makes it especially important to seek medical attention after the car accident so that the doctor may assess the injuries completely. After seeking medical attention, make sure to follow up with a proper treatment plan.
Common Treatments for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
There are many treatment options available for people suffering from thoracic outlet syndrome after a car accident such as physical therapy, medications, and clot-dissolving medications. Some doctors may begin the treatment with a conservative approach that includes physical therapy and relaxation therapy. The doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen to relieve inflammation in the blood vessels and nerves. However, if these treatment options do not work, the doctor may recommend surgery as the last resort.
Contact The Car Accident Lawyers At Krasney Law Today!
If you have developed thoracic outlet syndrome after a car accident in California, you should discuss your case with an experienced and reputed car accident lawyer at Krasney Law. Our attorney can educate you on the legal options available to you, and help recover the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries. Call (909) 380-7200 for a free case evaluation.