One of the most significant injuries accident victims can sustain is a fracture, which occurs when too much force is applied to the bone. While some broken bones can be more serious than others, it is nevertheless important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available to prevent minor concerns from becoming more severe.
If you or your loved one has suffered a broken bone due to the reckless, negligent, or willful misconduct of another, contact our personal injury attorneys at the Shiner Law Group to review your legal options in a free case review, as you may be entitled to financial compensation.
Causes of Broken Bones
Susceptible areas for bone fractures are the feet, ankles, and arms. The Shiner Law Group identifies several accident examples where victims are likely to sustain broken bone injuries:
- Car accidents: the sudden transfer of force between vehicles may cause a victim to become entangled in the steering wheel or collide with the airbag.
- Slips, trips, and falls: victims may use their hands or feet to reduce fall damage.
- Minor accidents: dropping heavy objects or missteps can apply unnecessary or overwhelming pressure on the bone, resulting in a fracture.
- Stress fractures: caused by overuse; small cracks develop over time due to repetitive action.
- Medical conditions: bone strength may weaken from certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis.
Symptoms Associated with Broken Bones
Suffering from a broken bone can be a traumatic experience. Understanding the symptoms commonly associated with these accidents can help you better prepare for your medical examination. If you have sustained a broken foot, ankle, or arm injury, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Throbbing pain at the break site;
- Swelling;
- Bruising;
- Tenderness;
- Increased pain with movement;
- Deformity;
- Difficulty in walking or applying pressure.
Following a break, victims are encouraged to apply ice to reduce swelling and to keep the bone elevated. Do not apply any hard pressure to the injury and lightly wrap the break site in a soft bandage.
Visiting Your Doctor or the Emergency Room
Consider the following questions your healthcare professional may ask upon arrival:
- What symptoms are you experiencing?
- Have you experienced any additional medical problems?
- What is your family’s medical history?
- What medications or dietary supplements do you take?
Available Treatment
The type and length of treatment for a broken foot, ankle, or arm will vary depending on the location and severity. Minor fractures can be remedied with treatment and rehabilitation; however, severe fractures, including open fractures, may require surgery.
A medical examination will determine if surgery is necessary or if common treatment options will help mend the fracture. Your doctor may ask you to move the bone to check your range of motion. If surgery is unnecessary, your doctor will recommend over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers, to reduce swelling, and request immobilization of the bone, which may require a brace or cast to be applied.
After the fracture has healed, you may pursue therapy options to strengthen and restore the muscles.
Speak with a Shiner Law Group Personal Injury Lawyer
Have you or someone you love been injured because of the negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct of another? Call us at (561) 777-7700 or contact us online for a free case review.
