Injuries are suffered in accidents across the U.S every day. Many of the injuries result from traffic collisions, medical malpractice and defective products.
Another common but often overlooked factor is slip-and-fall accidents. This type of accident is extremely prevalent, and the injuries suffered can be severe. Victims of falls often suffer injuries to their ankles. Even minor ankle injuries can be extremely painful and may result in someone having to take days or even weeks off of work.
Damaged ligaments
Ligaments form an integral part of the structure of your ankle. During a fall, you may twist your foot or fall down on it with all of your weight. The ankles aren’t designed to take this sort of pressure.
Your ligaments could become stretched, torn or twisted, causing you severe discomfort. In minor cases, you are going to have to rest, which often includes keeping your feet elevated. In severe circumstances, surgery may be your only viable route to recovery. You may be forced to undergo several months of physical therapy to get back to the place you were before the incident.
Ankle fractures
The ankle comprises various bones, most notably the tibia and fibula. If you hit your ankle during a fall or all of your weight is pressed down upon it, these bones are susceptible to breaking. Fractures of this kind can see you out of action for several months. You may require numerous surgeries and physical therapy during this recovery period, which means you could be out of work for some time.
The owners and managers of public premises have a legal duty to reduce the risk of falls. If you have suffered a fall, make sure you explore your legal options in more detail.