Soft Tissue Injuries- Part 2

Welcome back to the Soft Tissue Injury Series! This multipart series explores soft tissue injuries through the lens of criminal law, offering attorneys insights into the distinct challenges these cases often present. It will also highlight potential arguments that may arise during negotiation. In this edition we will dive into treatment approaches and recovery times! 

Treatment of Soft Tissue Injury 

Treatment for soft tissue injuries is frequently a point of contention in assault and motor vehicle collision cases. Defense arguments often claim that such injuries typically resolve within days or weeks, with or without medical intervention. In many instances, the standard approach—Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (PRICE)—is sufficient for at-home recovery (Cleveland Clinic, 2025). PRICE is especially critical during the first 24 to 72 hours following the injury (Sankhla, 2023).

While PRICE is a foundational treatment for all soft tissue injuries, some cases require more intensive care. Physical therapy may be necessary for certain individuals to restore function and mobility. In more severe cases, such as grade three sprains or strains, surgical intervention may be required alongside PRICE and rehabilitation to properly repair the damaged tissue.

Recovery of Soft Tissue Injury

While treatment options for sprains and strains may be relatively limited, recovery time largely depends on the severity of the injury. Grade one sprains or strains typically heal within one to two weeks. Grade two injuries often require three weeks or more for full recovery. In contrast, grade three injuries—where the tendon or ligament is completely torn—can involve significantly longer healing periods and may require more intensive medical intervention (Sankhla, 2023).