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If you notice a worsening of your arthritis after an accident, you may be wondering if the accident had anything to do with it. Not only can a car accident cause arthritis to flare up, but it can also trigger the onset in some cases. The Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer with Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath can provide guidance and advocacy in your car accident claim.
How does a car accident affect arthritis?
Most people know that certain types of arthritis , such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, are often the result of autoimmune disorders, repetitive motion, or simply the deterioration of the cartilage as a natural part of aging. However, forms of arthritis like post-traumatic arthritis can be the result of an injury to the joint.
When you sustain an injury, whether that is to a joint or another part of your body, you will typically notice an inflammation response, where your body sends cells and fluid to the area to begin the healing process. According to the Arthritis Foundation, anything that triggers or causes inflammation, including a car accident, can increase joint pain when you already suffer from arthritis.
Can a car accident cause arthritis if I didn’t already have it?
Depending on the type of injury you sustain and your health at the time of the accident, your joint may take enough damage to trigger arthritis. This is most likely to happen if you suffer a break or if parts of the cartilage break off in the joint. When it’s severe enough, the damage can be long-term, causing chronic pain and sometimes ongoing joint damage if you don’t obtain the appropriate treatment.
What is post-traumatic arthritis?
Post-traumatic arthritis develops as a direct result of an injury. The symptoms are similar to those of other forms and include swelling and pain in the joint. You may experience a limited range of motion and have difficulty bearing weight on the joint.
Most forms of arthritis are considered permanent and often degenerative. However, post-traumatic arthritis can be temporary and heal within a few months. Though that is not to say that it cannot turn into a chronic or degenerative condition, such as post-traumatic osteoarthritis.
How is an arthritis flare-up after a car accident treated?
The best method for treating arthritis varies depending on the type of condition and the individual. However, common forms of treatment include physical therapy and pain management. You may also find that managing your diet and stress levels is effective at decreasing pain. Occasionally, doctors may determine that surgical intervention is necessary.
Can I sue for arthritis after a car accident?
Arthritis is a chronic and painful condition. If someone else’s negligence triggered the onset of your arthritis, or significantly worsened it, you may be eligible for compensation for damages such as:
- The cost of initial medical treatment
- Lost wages or loss of earning capacity
- Future medical costs
- Physical therapy
- Pain and suffering
Working with personal injury attorneys can help you determine how much compensation you may be eligible to receive.
Call today if your accident led to joint pain or an arthritis flare-up
You may be inclined to dismiss soreness or joint stiffness after an accident. While these symptoms may be innocuous enough, they can also be indicators of something far more significant. If you have experienced an arthritis flare-up or diagnosis following a car accident, you deserve the chance to recover compensation for your treatment, pain, and suffering.
Call Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath today at (561) 655-1990 or go online to schedule your free case consultation.