Strong Legal Representation For La Jolla

The complications of bone fractures

On Behalf of | Oct 11, 2024 | Personal Injury

Broken bones are one of the most common injuries associated with car accidents. Any bone can fracture after blunt force trauma, but the legs, hands and facial bones are especially vulnerable in a crash. 

Not only is a fracture painful, but fractures can result in further complications. Outlined below are some potential complications with bone fractures. 

Nerve damage 

While a broken bone is serious, the damage caused to soft tissue and nerves can often be more painful and trickier to repair. If a bone shifts or a fragment breaks, it can penetrate the nerves. If a nerve is severely injured, then the damage can be permanent and can result in paralysis in certain areas of the body. 

Bones that don’t heal properly 

While doctors are usually very competent in ensuring that bones heal properly, they cannot guarantee it. In some cases, malunion and nonunion of bones can occur. Malunion means that the bones do heal, but they set in the wrong position. This can result in long-term discomfort. Nonunion occurs when bones do not fuse together or only partially fuse back together. 

Bone infections 

When a fractured bone penetrates the skin, the bone is exposed to the elements, which include harmful bacteria. In these cases, infection is a real possibility. Bone infections can be very painful and even fatal if not treated promptly. 

If you have been injured in a road traffic collision, personal injury compensation may be a possibility. This will help to cover your medical bills and other expenses. The deciding factor will be whether or not the other driver was negligent. To present the strongest possible case, it will help to seek legal guidance.