Soft Tissue Injuries Information Center

Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Tissue Injuries

Q: What are soft tissue injuries?

A: Soft tissue injuries involve damage to muscles, ligaments and tendons, but not bones or organs. These injuries can be contusions, strains or sprains. A common example of a soft tissue injury is whiplash. Whiplash is an injury to the soft tissue in the neck that happens through rapid forward and/or backward movement of the head, often due to the impact of a car accident. Soft tissue injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, on the other hand, can occur over time as the result of repetitive movement.

Q: How do I prove that someone else is responsible for my soft tissue injuries?

A: It is likely that you and your attorney will try to show that the responsible party — the defendant in a potential lawsuit — is liable under the legal theory of negligence. If, for example, you suffered soft tissue injuries in a car accident, you and your attorney will need to show that the driver of the other car did not act as a reasonable driver would have acted under the circumstances and that you were injured as a result.

Q: How much time do I have to file a lawsuit after I have been injured?

A: Every state has time limits, called statutes of limitations, that govern the amount of time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. In some states, you may have as little as one year to file a lawsuit arising out of an automobile accident. If you file your case after the deadline, your claim could be dismissed by the court. Consequently, it is important to consult a lawyer as soon as you receive or discover an injury.

Q: My job involves a lot of typing, and I have heard that such repetitive action can cause injuries. What can I do to prevent this?

A: If your job involves repetitive activity, you may be at risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome or another repetitive stress injury. Talk with your manager or human resources liaison about the hazards of your job and possible ergonomic solutions, such as a special office chair, wrist braces and other therapeutic, supportive devices.

Q: I have been diagnosed with a soft tissue injury to my neck. What can I expect in terms of treatment?

A: Depending on the severity of the injury, your treatment may include physical therapy, massage therapy, medication, rest and/or immobilization. In extreme cases, surgery is necessary.

Q: I have a feeling that my carpal tunnel syndrome is due to my job. Can I sue my employer?

A: Your legal remedy may be limited to workers' compensation, but there are exceptions. Whatever the specific circumstances of your case, an experienced personal injury attorney will be able to assess the facts and determine your right to compensation for your injuries.

Q: I was in a car accident a few days ago and am just now experiencing neck pain. What should I do?

A: Unlike more visible physical injuries, soft tissue injuries may not be apparent immediately after an accident or incident. It is possible to show no symptoms for a few days, even when there has been a significant injury. You should see a doctor as soon as possible and consult an experienced attorney to ensure that your legal rights are protected.

Q: What can my attorney do for me in terms of my recovery for soft tissue injuries?

A: In order to secure your proper medical treatment and establish the extent of your injuries, your attorney may want you to see a medical specialist such as an orthopedist, neurologist, chiropractor or physical therapist. Your attorney will also seek compensation from the party who injured you. The compensation will be for the physical, financial and psychological toll of your soft tissue injuries. This includes the impact of the injuries on your daily life, your diminished earning capacity, your medical costs and your pain and suffering.

Q: What should I bring with me when I meet with a lawyer?

A: You should provide the lawyer with any documents that might be relevant to your case. Police reports, medical reports and bills from doctors and hospitals will help demonstrate both liability and the nature of your injuries. Information about the insurer of the party who caused your injuries is extremely helpful, as are photographs of the accident scene, your property damage and your injuries (if possible). The more information you are able to give your lawyer, the easier it will be to determine the strength of your claim. If you have not collected all the documents at the time of your first meeting, however, don't worry; you and your lawyer should be able to obtain them during the investigation of your case.

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DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.

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