Slips and falls can lead to a wide range of injuries, from scrapes and bruises to broken bones or traumatic brain injury. Snowy and icy surfaces during winters in Connecticut mean an increase in these sorts of injuries, but they can occur at any time, indoors or outdoors. Depending on the severity of the injury, the injured person should seek medical attention. When a person hits his or her head due to a slip and fall, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention even if symptoms are not immediately apparent.
Common causes of slip and fall injuries
Uneven surfaces, debris on the floor or ground or generally unsafe walkways can all lead to slip and fall injuries. Additionally, slick or icy surfaces commonly cause people to loose their footing, resulting in bodily harm. Cuts and bruises commonly occur, and may not require professional medical care. Broken bones generally result in immediate severe pain and so people usually seek treatment. Head injuries are also quite common in slip and fall situations.
Treatment of slip and fall injuries
Deep or severe cuts may require stitches or sutures to heal properly. If there is bleeding, pressure should be applied until treatment is available or the bleeding stops. For more serious tripping injuries like broken bones, a doctor or hospital will usually X-ray the area and set the bone in a cast. Head injuries may require an MRI or other medical scan and the treatment varies based on the type and severity of the injury.
Symptoms may not present right away
It is a common circumstance in slip and fall cases that a person is injured but doesn’t immediately know it. Muscle damage from a jolting of the body or a hard fall can lead to inflammation or swelling that may not be obvious until several days have passed. Likewise with head injuries, concussions or traumatic brain injury symptoms may develop over time and so it’s a good idea to seek medical treatment after a fall.