Broken Foot Complications
The foot makes numerous, small, delicate movements that not only aid in transportation but also assist in keeping the body balanced. Like other traumatic injuries, there are multiple ways that a foot might be broken. A few of the most common mechanisms by which people sustain a bone fracture in their foot include:
- Direct Blow: A direct impact to the foot is one of the most common causes of a broken foot. This could be sustained in an auto accident or a bicycle collision.
- Crush Injury: A crush injury is another common way that people might suffer a bone fracture in their foot. This might occur if a heavy object falls on the foot while at work.
- Overuse Injury: People can also develop stress fractures in their foot through typical wear and tear sustained over time. This commonly occurs in athletes, particularly long-distance runners.
A broken foot can lead to severe complications depending on the type of injury.
Early Development of Arthritis Following a Broken Foot
Depending on where the break in the foot occurs, individuals could be at an increased risk of developing arthritis. The bones of the foot articulate together in a precise manner to provide an increased range of motion. If the break involves one or more of these joints, the cartilage in this area may start to degrade. When this happens, bones begin to rub together directly, leading to arthritis. A few of the signs of arthritis include:
- Pain at the site of the fracture
- A feeling of unsteadiness
- Redness of the foot
While many people believe arthritis is a disease of the elderly, young individuals could also develop arthritis following a broken foot.
Watch YouTube Video: Ankle Exercises for Arthritis. This video provides basic exercises for those who are suffering from ankle arthritis.
Infection After a Broken Foot
Another significant complication of a broken foot is the development of the severe disease. If the fracture breaks the surface of the skin, this opens the foot to a potential infection. When it comes to a broken foot, one common bacteria that could infect the fracture site is Pseudomonas. This dangerous pathogen can cause an infection if the fracture occurs while the person is wearing a tennis shoe. Some of the symptoms of a foot infection include:
- An apparent break in the skin
- Redness and swelling at the site of the injury
- Pus draining from the surface of the skin
- A high fever
If an individual develops an infection with bone fracture, intravenous antibiotics could be required to treat the disease. This could place someone in the hospital for an extended period. If the bacterial infection is not treated quickly, individuals might be at risk of amputation. Early treatment is necessary to minimize this risk.
Meeting with an Injury Lawyer
Once individuals have sought appropriate medical care for their injury, it is a good idea for families to reach out to a compassionate personal injury attorney in Sacramento. A trained and experienced legal adviser has the tools necessary to assist families during the recovery process. An injury lawyer can guide individuals in reviewing their options, pursue damages, and get their recovery process moving in the right direction.
Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyers
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer. Foot fractures can cause significant complications that could impair mobility in the long-term. Should you suffer a foot fracture in a serious accident, call me at (800) 404-5400 and/or (916) 921-6400 to receive free, friendly legal guidance and advice.
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