Can a Car Accident Cause Arthritis? Our Tallahassee Car Accident Lawyer Weighs In

 

Being injured in a car accident is a terrifying experience, especially when you are injured. On top of the immediately visible injuries, it is not uncommon for other injuries to appear in the days and weeks following the accident. One of the most common injuries that our Tallahassee car accident lawyer sees that is not immediately obvious after the accident is post-traumatic arthritis. Very similar to this is when an already existing case of arthritis is made significantly worse by a car accident. 

Post-Traumatic Arthritis In Tallahassee Car Accidents

Simply put, post-traumatic arthritis occurs when a joint becomes worn-down and inflamed due to a physical injury, such as a car or truck accident. It affects approximately 5.6 million people in the United States, and in automobile accidents, it is caused by the force of the crash’s impact on the joints. 

What are the symptoms of post-traumatic arthritis?

• The affected joint may feel like it is grinding or crunching
• The joint may swell and retain the fluid
• Persistent pain in the joint
• Decreased ability to tolerate walking, going up stairs, playing sports, riding a bicycle, etc.
• Decreased range of motion in the joint
• Stiffness in the joint
• Instability of the joint

How is post-traumatic arthritis diagnosed?

To diagnosis post-traumatic arthritis, a physician may do the following:

• Ask you for a detailed health history
• Ask you questions regarding when your joints hurt, what causes them to feel better or worse, and your pain level
• Physically examine you
• Perform multiple tests, including an MRI, a CT scan, an ultrasound, and a blood test

How is post-traumatic arthritis treated?

Treatment of post-traumatic arthritis will vary depending on the severity and progress of the symptoms. Treatments cover a broad spectrum of medical care and may include:

• Weight loss
• Exercises
• Medication
• Cortisone Injections
• Surgery
• Physical Therapy
• Joint replacement

Can post-traumatic arthritis be cured?

Post-traumatic arthritis is not a condition that can be cured. However, with proper treatment, the symptoms can be managed, and its effect on your life minimized. It is also important to remember that a Tallahassee car accident lawyer will help you get the compensation you need to treat and manage your post-traumatic arthritis properly.

How much can I recover for my post-traumatic arthritis caused by a car accident?

Like most injuries, the amount you can recover for your post-traumatic arthritis depends mainly on the severity of the damage inflicted by the car accident. In many cases, victims can recover the cost of their past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The amount your particular case is worth is a matter you should discuss with a Tallahassee car accident lawyer.

Consult With a Tallahassee Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you believe you have developed post-traumatic arthritis following an accident, or if your already existing arthritis became worse following a car accident, contact a Tallahassee car accident lawyer to discuss your potential case. Contact our firm online or at 1-888-549-7011 today to learn more about how we can help you.