Slip and fall accidents might sound benign to someone who has never experienced the severity of a slip and fall injury in Arizona. Victims of a fall may experience serious injuries, most commonly in the form of bone fractures. In some cases, broken bones may heal quickly or without trouble. Other cases may be more complex, particularly in the case of nonunions.
A nonunion refers to a bone that does not heal, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. In order for a bone to heal properly, it requires blood, stability and nutrition. After a fall resulting in a fracture, it is crucial for a person to keep his or her limb in a consistent position and to eat healthy. Often, the blood supply increases on its own while you heal.
Unfortunately, there are some risk factors beyond your control. For instance, here are some risk factors that make you more likely to suffer from a nonunion:
- Older age
- Diabetes
- Infection
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Anemia
The problem with a nonunion is that you may not know that you have one. Some patients shrug off a nonunion as a slow healing process. Those who suffer from a nonunion have persistent pain, no progress in healing and a gap at the fracture site. Now, the persistent pain is something that you can recognize at home. The rest, however, you can seek a diagnosis for at your regular doctor visits for your broken bone. Once diagnosed, the doctor will order blood tests. This will help provide you with a reason for the nonunion, aside from the break itself.
None of the above is to be interpreted as legal advice. It is for educational purposes only.
