If you have suffered a broken arm, then you know that it can be a difficult injury to recover from. Depending on the severity of the break, it may take weeks or even months for the bone to heal properly. During this time, it is important to take steps to ensure that you make a full recovery. In this blog post, we will discuss six steps that you should take after suffering a broken arm.
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If Your Broken Arm Was Someone Else’s Fault Consult A Lawyer
If your broken arm was the result of someone else’s negligence, it is important to consult with a personal injury lawyer. They will be able to advise you on whether or not you have a case and how to proceed. The expert lawyers at The Terry Law Firm recommend that you seek legal counsel as soon as possible after the accident. The longer you wait, the harder it might be to win your case. Also, be sure to keep all documentation related to the accident and your injury, as this will be important evidence.
Stop Any Bleeding That Is Happening
If you or someone else has suffered a broken arm, the first thing that you need to do is stop any bleeding that is happening. This can be done by using a clean cloth or bandage to apply pressure to the wound. Once the bleeding has stopped, you will need to immobilize the arm by splinting it.
This can be done by using a firm object such as a ruler or a piece of wood to support the arm. You will then need to wrap the splint in place with something like an ace bandage. Finally, you will need to see a doctor to have the arm properly set and put in a cast.
Reduce Swelling By Icing The Arm
If you have suffered a broken arm, it is important to reduce the swelling as soon as possible. One way to do this is by icing the arm. You should ice the arm for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This will help to reduce the swelling and also help to numb the pain.
Another way to reduce the swelling is by elevating the arm. This can be done by lying on your back and placing a pillow under your arm. This will help to keep the blood from pooling in the arm and will also help to reduce the pain.
If you are in severe pain, you may want to take over-the-counter pain medication. Ibuprofen is a good choice, as it will help to reduce both the pain and the swelling. However, be sure to follow the directions on the bottle carefully, as too much ibuprofen can cause stomach bleeding.
Treat For Shock
If you are with the injured person, make sure they are lying down and comfortable. If possible, raise their legs about 12 inches off the ground to help reduce swelling. Apply a cold compress to the area for pain relief and to help reduce swelling. Monitor the person’s vital signs and watch for signs of shock, such as pale skin, sweating, anxiety, and dizziness. If the person goes into shock, call 911 immediately.
It’s critical to seek medical attention right away if you have a broken arm. Once you are seen by a medical professional, they will likely give you a splint or cast to wear while your arm heals.
See An Actual Doctor
The first step you should take after suffering a broken arm is to see an actual doctor. Not your neighbor who is a retired nurse, or your friend’s mother who used to be a doctor in her home country. A real, certified, licensed physician. Why? Because only a doctor can give you an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the proper course of treatment.
If you try to self-diagnose and self-treat, you could end up making your injury worse. And trust me, you do not want that. So go see a doctor as soon as possible after suffering a broken arm. It could be the difference between a quick and easy recovery, or a long and painful one.
Get Regular Check-Ups
If you have a broken arm, it is important to get regular check-ups. Your doctor will be able to tell you how your arm is healing and if there are any complications. They will also be able to give you advice on how to care for your arm and what exercises you can do to help rehabilitate it. Check-ups are an important part of the recovery process, so make sure to schedule them with your doctor.
A broken arm is a serious injury that requires prompt medical attention. By following the steps above, you can ensure that you receive the proper treatment and make a full recovery. So if you or someone you know has suffered a broken arm, don’t delay in seeking medical help. The sooner you do, the better.
