Phoenix Leg Sprains & Fracture Lawyer

Leg Sprain vs. Leg Fracture

A leg sprain is a common injury in which the knee or ankle ligaments are stretched or torn. Ligaments are bands or sheets of fibrous tissue that connect two or more bones or cartilages. They also serve as a support for fasciae or muscles.

A leg fracture is a broad term used to describe a medical condition in which there is a bone break in the leg. The leg is made up of the fibula and the tibia, which connect to the femur on top. The fibula is on the outside of the leg and is the smaller one of the two bones. On the other hand, the tibia is on the inside of the leg and is the larger one of the two bones. The thigh, or upper leg, is comprised of the femur bone, which is a much larger and tougher bone.

Symptoms

The following are symptoms of a leg sprain:

• Swelling/Puffiness
• Redness
• Bruising
• Increased Pain when Shifting Weight
• Warmth in the Leg

The following are symptoms of a leg fracture:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Weakness
• Bruising
• Numbness
• Difficulty walking

Common Causes

A leg fracture can be caused by, but is not limited to, the following:

• Auto accident
• Motorcycle accident
• Construction accident
• Slip and fall accident
• Sports injury

Consequences

Depending on the severity of your injury, a leg fracture or sprain may affect various areas of daily life. The typical leg injury may cause some inconveniences at home and work; however, most patients receive a leg cast or splint with crutches. Pain will increase if the leg bumps into an object while healing, so caution is advised.

Treatment

The RICE method is usually helpful in treating a leg fracture or sprain.

• R – Rest
• I – Ice
• C – Compression
• E – Elevation

In order to prevent the injury from worsening, a leg cast or splint may be used until the fracture has healed as much as necessary. Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or acetaminophen, can also help with the pain and swelling. If you are experiencing severe pain, a stronger pain medication may be used.

Once the pain starts to subside, you will work on strengthening leg muscles by using a series of motion exercises; physical therapy may also be of assistance. Depending on the severity of the injury, surgery may be required.

Contact Us

If you were in an accident and are now enduring a knee sprain or fracture, contact the Law Offices of Michael Cordova at (602) 265-6700. You can also contact us via our Chat Services or by filling out our online Case Evaluation Form.