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Am I Suffering from a Broken Bone or a Sprain?

X Ray of Broken Bones

Whether caused by a stumble on the sidewalk, an injury while playing sports, or a car crash, accidents happen. Sometimes, these injuries can be difficult to diagnose. Broken bones, for instance, are often mistaken for sprains and strains, which can have similar symptoms. How these injuries are treated, however, is very different, making it especially important for accident victims to see a doctor as soon as possible. 

Is it a Fracture?

There are actually a lot of different types of broken bone, or fractures, from which an accident victim can suffer. These injuries range in severity depending on whether the bone is partially or completely broken. Signs of a broken bone include:

  • Pain located directly on the bone where there is no soft tissue;
  • Pain becoming worse when the limb is moved or pressure is applied;
  • Severe swelling or bruising over the top of the bone;
  • Numbness or swelling;
  • A cracking sound at the time of the injury; or
  • An inability to use the injured limb. 

Someone who is suffering some or all of these symptoms should seek medical attention as soon as possible. A trained medical professional can conduct an x-ray, MRI, or CT scan to confirm the nature and severity of the break. Treatment, which could include splinting, casting, immobilization, or even surgical intervention will depend on the severity and location of the injury. 

Is it a Sprain?

Ligaments connect the bones to each other at the joint and stretching or tearing these ligaments can result in a sprain. The most common location for sprains is the ankle, but they can also occur at the wrists, elbows, hips, or other joints. Signs that a person could be suffering from a sprain include:

  • Pain in the soft tissue over the bone, rather than directly on the bone itself;
  • The ability to put weight on a limb, although doing so might be painful;
  • Limited movement or mobility in the affected area; and
  • A popping sound at the time of injury. 

There are a variety of treatments for sprains, but most heal over time with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce the pain and inflammation while the injured party recovers. If, after a few days, there is major bruising or severe pain and it remains impossible to place weight on the limb, an injured party may need to seek medical care and receive a definitive treatment plan that could involve rehabilitative therapy.

Speak with a member of Our Miami Legal Team 

Injuries like broken bones and sprains can have significant repercussions for a person’s life, making it difficult, if not impossible, to go to work or even to engage in day-to-day activities. Fortunately, it is possible to recover compensation for these kinds of accident-related injuries. Call Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein at 305-371-2692 to schedule a meeting with one of our dedicated Miami personal injury lawyers to learn more. We respond to questions and concerns 24 hours a day, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us by phone or online message