A shinbone fracture can lead to many challenges
It’s easy to believe you will never suffer a shinbone injury, especially if you have been able to avoid injury to this part of your body in the past. However, depending on your profession, this could happen when you least expect it.
A shinbone fracture can lead to a variety of challenges, including extreme pain and discomfort immediately following the injury.
Generally speaking, this type of injury is the result of a high-energy collision. For instance, if you work in the construction industry, the injury could result from a large tool or piece of debris striking your leg.
The most common signs and symptoms of a shinbone fracture include:
- Inability to walk or put weight on your leg
- Pain and discomfort
- Instability
- Bone that is showing through the skin
- Loss of feeling in the foot
If you have any reason to believe you are suffering from a shinbone fracture, it’s imperative to seek medical attention. Your doctor will examine the site of the injury, looking for:
- Swelling
- Deformity
- Break in the skin
- Bruising
This typically leads to your doctor ordering additional testing, such as an X-ray, to get a clear idea of what is going on and how to proceed with treatment.
If you suffer a shinbone fracture on the job, don’t wait to call for medical attention. You should also report the injury to your employer in a timely manner.
If your medical team advises you to stay off your leg for an extended period of time, you may want to file a workers’ compensation claim. The money you receive will make your life easier as you recover.
Source: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, “Tibia (Shinbone) Shaft Fractures,” accessed Nov. 07, 2017