Falls are one of the most common causes of injury, especially for older adults, and the resulting injuries can range from minor to severe. What are some of the most common injuries after a fall? Let’s take a look.
BROKEN BONES
Broken bones are among the most common fall injuries. Bones can break in falls from even relatively short heights, whether the fall occurred from a defective ladder, slipping on a wet floor, or falling on dangerous stairs. Broken arms and legs are the most frequent type of break from a fall; however, some falls involve more serious fractures to wrists, ankles, and hips.
All fractures require medical attention. Less complicated fractures may heal through immobilization, whereas more complex fractures may require surgery, such as open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) surgery. The road to recovery depends on the severity of the fracture, the required medical treatment, and the age and/or condition of the individual who suffered the fall.
TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES
Falls are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries, with over 8 million cases reported annually. Symptoms and severity can vary greatly depending on the area of the brain affected, but common symptoms include confusion, memory loss, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. In more severe cases, people may experience a loss of consciousness and pervasive changes in behavior or personality. In some cases, the injuries can be fatal if not promptly addressed, such as when someone suffers a subdural hematoma.
It’s essential to be aware of these risks so that you are prepared should an accident occur. However unlikely it might seem at the time, it pays to remain vigilant and get medical attention if needed to ensure a full recovery.
SPINAL CORD INJURIES
Spinal cord injuries are some of the most serious and debilitating. Depending on the severity of the injury, a person may experience partial or complete loss of movement, sensation, or autonomic function below the site of impact.
These injuries can require long-term treatment to alleviate pain and maximize neurological recovery. Treatment options may include physical therapy to restore mobility, medications for nerve pain, and surgical interventions such as epidural stimulation or decompression surgeries. Furthermore, it is often difficult for people with spinal cord injuries to return to work in the same capacity, further impacting their quality of life.
DISLOCATED JOINTS AND LIGAMENT TEARS
A dislocated joint occurs when joints in the body are forcibly pushed out of their normal position. It typically affects large joints like the shoulders, elbows, and hips, but any joint can become dislocated in extreme cases. When it occurs, it can cause intense pain and swelling, as well as a visible deformity indicating the displacement of the joint.
Immediate medical attention should be sought following a fall where dislocation may have occurred; doctors will likely review X-rays or perform an MRI to confirm the diagnosis before attempting to realign the physical components of the joint back into its proper place.
Whether the fall involved a dislocation or not, ligament tears are also a common injury, such as a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or a torn labrum in the hip or shoulder. Depending on the extent of the tear and other factors, surgery is often necessary.
GET THE HELP OF A PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY
Falls can result in severe and even life-threatening injuries. Sometimes these falls are a result of the negligence of another party, such as a dangerous condition on a sidewalk or retail store, or a defective product like a ladder. When the fall is the direct result of the negligence of another, then you may be entitled to compensation.
If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in a fall caused by someone else’s negligence, contact the personal injury attorneys at Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook. We can help you get the compensation for your injuries that you deserve.
Call us at (925) 275-5592 or visit us online to get started.