Toronto Joint Injury Lawyer
The human body has hundreds of moveable and semi-movable joints, which provide flexible connections between bones. A joint injury can be disabling, and resulting chronic complications can limit the ability to work or perform normal, everyday activities. If you’re suffering from a debilitating joint injury that you sustained in a negligence-related accident, consult a Toronto joint injury lawyer to discuss the option of filing a claim for financial compensation.
Joints Susceptible to Injury
A joint injury can be the result of a degenerative disorder, a repetitive use injury or a traumatic accident, such as a car or bike accident, a fall from heights, a dog bite attack, or even a stumble. The joints that are most susceptible to joint injuries include those in the neck, back, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, hips, knees, ankles and feet. Some of the most common joint injuries that warrant attention from a joint injury lawyer in Toronto include:
- Bursitis (inflammation of little fluid-filled sacs, or bursa)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Herniated spinal discs
- Torn or overstretched ACLs and other knee ligaments
- Meniscus tears
- Sprains and strains
- Fractures
- Fractures
- Dislocated or separation shoulder injuries
- Rotator cuff injuries
Diagnosis for Joint Injuries
When diagnosing joint injuries, the physician will perform a physical exam and inquire about your symptoms, which might include pain, swelling, redness, numbness and limited range of motion. The physician likely will order a few medical tests to for proper diagnosis, including evaluations such as:
- X-rays
- MRIs or CT scans
- Blood tests (to determine if infection or arthritis is present)
It is important to note that joint injuries may not manifest immediately after an accident. This is why it’s a good idea always to get a thorough medical exam after any accident.
Treatment Options
Treatments prescribed to joint injury patients depend upon the nature, location and severity of the damage. For instance, an Achilles tendon injury might be treated with rest, stretching, ice packs, physical therapy and surgery in severe cases.An acromioclavicular (AC) joint injury might be treated with pain medication, ice therapy, slings, chiropractic care and occasionally, surgical intervention. Other treatments and lifestyle changes often used in joint injury cases include:
- Physiotherapy treatments
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and balance
- Use of medical aids such as crutches, orthotics or braces
- Weight loss (excess weight can aggravate joint injuries and conditions)
- Protective taping
- Modified activities
- Alternative therapies like acupuncture or soft-tissue massage
Filing a Joint Injury Claim
If your injury is the result of an accident for which someone else is responsible, you and a Toronto joint injury lawyer may file a claim to pursue compensation for damages. This may include an Accident Benefits claim and/or tort claims if your injury was caused by a motor vehicle accident. If you were involved in a slip or trip and fall accident, you may be able to obtain compensation from the at fault party or parties that caused your injury. Compensable damages may include:
- Medical bills
- Treatments, medical devices and rehabilitative therapies
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- The effect of the injury on your daily life
Consult a Lawyer
To determine if you are eligible to file joint injury claim, contact a Toronto joint injury lawyer today.