The Signs of A Serious Elbow Injury

Colburn Law

Posted in Blog,Personal Injury on April 22, 2024

Elbow injuries vary widely in severity, from minor discomfort to serious trauma that requires immediate medical intervention. Whether sustained during sports, resulting from a fall, or a consequence of a vehicle collision, the seriousness of an elbow injury can significantly impact your ability to perform daily tasks and enjoy a normal life.

Symptoms of a Serious Elbow Injury

If you suffer any type of elbow injury in an accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible—even if the damage appears minor. However, certain signs can indicate that the injury is serious and requires immediate treatment.

Some indicators of a potentially serious elbow injury include:

• Visible bone protrusions or an open wound in the elbow area
• An audible snap or cracking sound at the time of injury
• An unusual angle or noticeable deformity in the elbow joint, often accompanied by intense pain
• Significant swelling, bruising, or both around the elbow, which may develop quickly after the injury
• Acute pain that persists or intensifies, especially when moving the elbow or applying pressure
• Difficulty in performing normal movements, such as rotating the arm from palm up to palm down
• Persistent elbow pain that does not improve with standard home care treatments
• Increasing redness or warmth in the elbow, which could indicate an infection

Common Causes of Serious Elbow Injuries

Serious elbow injuries can arise from several scenarios. Sports-related activities are a prevalent cause, especially in contact sports like football or in racquet sports such as tennis, where the elbow is subjected to frequent, intense stress. Direct trauma, such as a fall onto an outstretched arm or a sudden blow during a game, can fracture the elbow or dislocate the joint.

Vehicle accidents also contribute to severe elbow injuries. During a crash, the elbow might forcefully hit the interior of the car or the impact may cause the joint to jerk in unnatural directions, leading to complex fractures or joint dislocations. These injuries are often exacerbated by the speed and force of the collision, making them particularly severe.

Slips, trips, and falls are everyday incidents that can unexpectedly lead to serious elbow injuries. During a fall, your first instinct may be to extend your arm to break a fall. However, this action can place immense pressure on the elbow, resulting in a severe injury.

Your Options for Compensation After an Elbow Injury

If your elbow injury resulted from someone else’s actions or negligence, you might be eligible for compensation through a personal injury lawsuit or insurance claim.

These legal avenues can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with your injury. Additionally, these claims empower you to hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions, deterring them from committing the same negligent acts in the future.

However, pursuing compensation can be a lengthy and complex process. While you are dealing with a serious elbow injury, trust a Seattle personal injury lawyer to fight for your right to justice. An attorney can offer the support and guidance necessary to achieve a favorable outcome, protecting your rights every step of the way.

After your accident, schedule your free legal consultation to discuss your legal options and take your first steps toward recovery.