- posted: Apr. 23, 2014
Despite the pratfalls taken by comedians, falling down is no joke. If you have not suffered a broken bone in your lifetime, the physical pain and disability may be shocking.
For most adults, broken bones occur after an accident involving significant force, like an automobile collision or a fall. Underlying conditions such as osteoporosis create a higher risk for serious injury.
Fall accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injury in United States. More often, a slip and fall leads to a broken bone. One of the most common injuries in a fall accident is a distal radius fracture also known as a broken wrist.
When balance is lost, most people stretch out their hand to break their fall, and inadvertently break a wrist in the process. This type of fracture is referred to as a fall on an outstretched hand or FOOSH.
Common types of wrist fractures include:
- A fracture that extends into the wrist is called an intra-articular fracture.
- An extra-articular fracture is a break that does not extend across the wrist.
- A wrist bone or bones broken in more than two spots is known as comminuted.
The financial loss and pain that accompanies a broken bone is serious. A fractured wrist, leg or ankle can leave you with lost wages, high medical bills and future physical impairment.
When on the premises of others, you have a right to safety and a duty of care. When you suffer a broken bone due to the negligence of others, speak with a skilled injury attorney in Maryland.