Treatment Options for FOOSH Injuries After Boca Raton Slips and Falls
In the context of a slip and fall in Boca Raton, “FOOSH” stands for “falling on an outstretched hand.” It is a common injury category that affects countless Americans each year. If you fell on an outstretched hand, you may struggle to grasp objects, type, and carry out many other basic daily tasks. What are your potential treatment options in this situation? Can a Boca Raton slip-and-fall lawyer help you access this treatment?
Do You Have a Fracture?
If you’re trying to determine what kind of treatment options you need after a FOOSH injury, your first step should be to see a doctor. The most appropriate treatment likely depends on your unique circumstances, including whether or not you have fractured a bone.
Common fractures that fall under the general category of FOOSH include distal radioulnar joint fractures, radial head fractures, and scaphoid fractures. Even if you don’t think you have experienced a fracture, it is worth seeing a doctor and getting an X-ray. Some patients with scaphoid fractures mistakenly believe that they have suffered sprains instead.
Some fractures may require casts, while others might only need a light splint. While surgery is rare for these fractures, it could be necessary for severe cases.
How Long Do FOOSH Sprains and Tears Take to Heal?
If you have suffered a sprain or tear due to your fall, you may mistakenly believe that your injury is relatively light compared to a fracture. However, a torn ligament can be just as serious as a fracture. Sometimes, tears are more serious than fractures. For example, you may develop a condition called scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) if you suffer a scapholunate tear.
According to Healthline, this type of tear may not heal properly, even if you receive prompt treatment. The hand and wrist are filled with various joints and ligaments, and it is one of the most intricate parts of the human body. Speak to your doctor to learn how long your specific strain or tear will take to heal.
Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation
If you cannot see a doctor immediately after your fall, be sure to rest the affected area, apply ice, elevate your hand, and consider compression. Healthline also advises patients to construct temporary splints with household items if necessary.
Remember, these “home remedies” are only temporary solutions. You should see a doctor as soon as possible after a FOOSH injury, and you can visit the emergency department at your local hospital late at night if necessary. Medical records help document your injuries, potentially making it easier to sue a property owner in the future.
Can a Boca Raton Slip-and-Fall Lawyer Help Me?
A Boca Raton slip-and-fall lawyer may be able to help if you’re assessing your treatment options for FOOSH injuries. While various treatment options are available, you also need to consider their cost. If someone else caused your slip and fall, you should not have to pay your medical bills out of your own pocket. Instead, you can sue the negligent property owner for allowing your injuries to occur. Contact Steinberg Law today to learn more about your options.
Sources:
healthline.com/health/foosh
webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-foosh
