As you know, car accidents can cause severe and lasting injuries like abdomen and brain trauma. Those who escape an accident with only a broken leg or other limb injury usually consider themselves lucky.
Of course, leg injuries are not always catastrophic, but what appears to be a minor issue could cause more problems than you think, many of them long-term. Here are four possible outcomes of a car accident-related leg injury.
1. Osteomyelitis or infection
If bacteria invade the body via an open wound or even during surgery, it can lead to a bone infection. Osteomyelitis usually causes fever, pain and swelling and could lead to amputation. The condition may require long-term antibiotics or surgery to promote healing.
2. Nerve damage
Severe and complex bone breaks can result in substantial nerve damage, often impacting mobility and sensation. Possible effects include numbness, tingling, weakness and decreased ability to move. Some nerve injuries can heal over time, while others may be permanent.
3. Muscle damage
As you might expect, an accident violent enough to break your leg can damage surrounding tissue. When the bone breaks, it may bruise, stretch or tear the muscles responsible for supporting your leg. Muscle damage is quite painful and may require long-term physical therapy or surgery.
4. Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
Some leg injury victims go on to experience a condition in which the pain they feel is disproportionate to the injury severity. For example, they feel constant, extreme pain after a relatively minor injury. CRPS can be persistent but may improve with early treatment.
You must get the most out of your car accident claim to ensure your compensation addresses the extra costs of complicated leg fractures. Learning more about Texas injury compensation laws can help you strengthen your claim.
