A 50-year-old female presents with right shoulder and arm pain following a traffic accident where she was a passenger. She recalls her head being jolted backward and forward at the moment of the collision. She denies any weakness or numbness. What could be the possible cause, and how would you proceed?
This patient's shoulder and arm pain following a traffic accident where her head was jolted back and forth suggest a whiplash injury. The force exerted during the collision can cause strain to the muscles and ligaments of the neck, which can result in referred pain to the shoulder and arm. The lack of weakness or numbness is a good sign, indicating there may not be any nerve damage. The patient should be evaluated with a detailed physical examination, including a neurological evaluation. Pain management, including analgesics and muscle relaxants, might be needed, and physical therapy can be beneficial for recovery.