After a serious car accident, you sustained major injuries. You know you have a broken leg, and you know you have a personal injury case. How should you approach recovery?
Mayo Clinic explains treatment methods for broken leg bones. Understand your recovery options, so you know how much to seek in damages.
Setting the bone
In urgent care or emergency room settings, physicians use splints to keep broken bones from moving. Depending on the break type and location, your physician may need to move the bone in place before using a splint.
Medication
Over-the-counter medication helps address swelling and pain. Common pain medications prescribed for bone breaks include ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Let your doctor know if these do not provide relief, as you may need a prescription for something stronger.
Immobilization
Broken bones must remain still to heal properly. Once you have a cast or splint, you may also need a cane or crutches to get around and keep weight off your broken leg. Expect to keep your leg immobile between six to eight weeks, possibly longer.
Physical therapy
When you no longer need a splint or cast, expect to undergo physical rehabilitation or engage in rehabilitation exercises. Prepare to experience weak or stiff muscles. Your broken bone may not heal for several months, even with physical therapy.
Surgery
Depending on your recovery, you may need surgery to heal completely. Health care professionals use screws, plates, rods and other internal fixation devices to move bones into proper alignment.
You deserve to know what to expect during your recovery. Proper knowledge helps you get back to your routine and build your personal injury case.
