After a car accident, it may seem normal to have some aches and pains. After all, your body absorbed some of the force of the crash. However, it is always wise to seek medical attention after a wreck because a seemingly minor muscle injury can actually turn into a very serious health condition, such as compartment syndrome.

What Is Compartment Syndrome?

In a car accident, you may have suffered trauma that resulted in swelling. While some swelling is caused by broken bones and soft tissue injuries, other swelling could occur in a muscle compartment. When swelling occurs in a compartment, increased pressure is placed on muscles, nerves and blood vessels.

If it is not properly diagnosed and treated, the pressure could increase in that area and lead to nerve damage, restricted blood flow, or permanent muscle damage. In some severe cases, an arm or leg may need to be amputated.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms to Watch For?

Because this type of injury is serious and can be life-altering, it is wise to learn about the signs of compartment syndrome in order to recognize any symptoms of this condition following your auto accident. While compartment syndrome can occur in the arm, hand, abdomen, thigh, and foot, it is most common in the lower leg and forearm.

Some of the warning signs of compartment syndrome in the affected area include:

  • Weakness
  • Tingling and numbness
  • Decreased feeling or sensation
  • Pale skin
  • Burning pain
  • Pain that gets severe
  • Pain that doesn’t go away with medicine

It is important that if you experience any of these symptoms, you get a thorough medical examination. In fact, you should get the pressure within the compartment measured to diagnose compartment syndrome. If you do have this health condition, you will likely have a fasciotomy, a surgical procedure that relieves the pressure by opening up the affected compartment.

If you suffered permanent damage or amputation due to compartment syndrome as a result of a collision caused by the negligence of another driver, you have legal rights. Contact us now to find out how we can help.

Related Links: