Ankle Dislocation in a Car Crash
Driving a motor vehicle provides many people with freedom and independence. However, driving also comes with a tremendous amount of responsibility. An auto accident can ensue at any time, and even minor accidents could lead to serious injuries. According to some statistics released by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- In 2016, there were close to 34,500 car accidents that resulted in one or more fatalities.
- This is almost 2,000 more than in 2015 alone.
- In 2016, there were more than 2,100,000 injuries from car accidents.
- More than five million cars suffered severe damage or were totaled in 2016.
- All of these numbers represent a significant jump from 2015 and 2014.
This information demonstrates that car accidents, and the traumatic injuries that result from them, still pose a serious threat to everyone in the United States. Therefore, it is vital for people to understand the types of injuries that might result from a car accident. One of these is a severe dislocation of the ankle.
How Does an Ankle Dislocation Happen?
When someone is involved in a car accident, an ankle dislocation could occur. When people are driving and see an object in front of them, they often slam on the brakes and stop short. An impact at the front of the vehicle can roll up the ankle with the crumbling of the car, leading to an ankle dislocation. Some of the symptoms include:
- Severe pain in the ankle
- An inability to walk
- Swelling
- An obvious deformity
- Redness and bruising
- Possible numbness and tingling in the foot
Anyone showing these symptoms needs to be evaluated by a trained medical provider. Sometimes, an ankle dislocation can sever nerves and blood vessels, leading to serious complications.
What are the Treatment Options?
Someone who presents with the symptoms above will receive a series of x-rays to evaluate the ankle. If the ankle is displaced from its normal anatomic location, it will need to be reduced. The treatment of an ankle dislocation is to first make sure that the nerves and blood vessels are intact. If they are, the ankle will be reduced with imaging guidance. Before this, most individuals will receive medication, such as ketamine, to sedate them. Reduction of an ankle dislocation is an excruciating process, and people should be numbed before this.
Once the ankle is reduced, it is typically placed in a splint. Then, the individual is given crutches to remove weight from the ankle, giving it time to heal. Most people will undergo intense physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the ankle, preventing a re-dislocation. If the nerves and blood vessels are intact, most individuals will make a full recovery.
Watch YouTube Video: Best Ankle Rehabilitation Exercises for Those Recovering from Ankle Injury. This video provides some comprehensive exercises to not only strengthen and balance your injured ankle but also improve flexibility.
Help from a Lawyer
When someone dislocates a bone in a car accident, numerous medical issues could develop as a result. This can place families under a large amount of stress from issues such as:
- Hospital bills
- Issues related to insurance
- Questions surrounding the accident
- The recovery process
- Possible issues related to missed time from work
It is normal for families to have questions and concerns following such a serious injury. Because of this, it is helpful to meet with an experienced car accident lawyer in Sacramento following an accident. You and your family members could be deserving of financial compensation.
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Sacramento Car Accident Lawyers
I’m Ed Smith, a car accident lawyer in Sacramento. Ankle dislocations can lead to permanent complications. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a car accident, call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly legal advice.
I am a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
You can see our verdicts or settlements here.
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Ankle Dislocation in a Car Crash: AutoAccident.com
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