You may not pay much attention to your sternum, or breastbone, most of the time, but it can suddenly become the center of your days when it begins hurting. You may not be able to perform everyday movements, and even trying to sleep could become difficult because of the discomfort you feel.
If you have been in any kind of traumatic incident, from car accidents to slip and falls, you could have fractured your sternum. But how do you know when you could be suffering from a break? Learn more about the symptoms of a fractured sternum and what your legal options might be.
What Is the Sternum?
Your sternum is a long and flat bone that sits in the center of your chest. It connects to your collarbone and ribs while also protecting your heart. The sternum provides support for ligaments and muscles, and it also helps to expand the diameter of your chest when you breathe.
Symptoms of a Broken Sternum
A broken sternum can cause a range of painful and concerning symptoms. Common signs include:
- Chest pain: The most frequent symptom, often sharp or dull, and worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or certain movements.
- Tenderness: The area over the sternum may be painful or sensitive to touch.
- Swelling and bruising: Discoloration and puffiness can appear around the chest.
- Shortness of breath: Pain when breathing may make it difficult to take full breaths.
- Visible deformity: Severe fractures may cause the sternum to protrude or sink inward.
- Crepitus: A crackling or grinding sensation when touching or moving the area.
- Emergency symptoms: Irregular heartbeat, severe breathing problems, or loss of consciousness require immediate medical attention.
If you suspect a broken sternum, seek medical care right away to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
Most Common Causes of Sternum Fractures
Trauma to the chest is often the cause of these breaks. Motor vehicle accidents are typically the most frequent cause, but falls and even repetitive movements can cause them. Being struck by heavy machinery in a workplace accident or sustaining trauma from an assault can also cause these breaks.
Even medical malpractice could result in sternum fractures. If a medical professional is not careful enough when moving you into position for surgery, for example, your breastbone could break.
Legal Options After Suffering a Sternum Fracture
If your sternum fracture happened because of someone else’s careless or reckless behavior, you may be entitled to financial compensation. This usually involves filing a personal injury claim, which holds the responsible party accountable for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
If your injury occurred at work, the process is a bit different. Most employers carry workers’ compensation insurance, which covers medical treatment and part of your lost wages after a workplace accident — regardless of who was at fault. However, these benefits don’t include compensation for pain and suffering.
You may still be able to file a separate claim if a third party contributed to your injury, and this could include:
- A negligent driver in a work-related crash
- A contractor or subcontractor on a shared job site
- A manufacturer of faulty equipment or safety gear
A personal injury lawyer can help you determine whether you qualify for additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation and guide you through each step of your recovery.
Contact the Joliet Personal Injury Attorneys at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys for Help Today
If your sternum was fractured because of another party’s conduct, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your losses. It’s never a good idea to pursue the legal process of filing a claim by yourself, however. With a team of lawyers assisting you, you can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve suffered a broken sternum from someone else’s negligence, Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Joliet personal injury lawyer. We can help you get the compensation you deserve.
For more information, please contact the experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys today. We offer free consultations.
We proudly serve Cook County, Will County, Kendall County, and their surrounding areas:
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Chicago Office
10 S La Salle St STE 1230, Chicago, IL 60603
Phone:(312) 726-1616
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Chicago
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Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Joliet Office
195 Springfield Ave, Joliet, IL 60435
Phone: (815) 726-1616
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Joliet
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 41.5254295,-88.1381011
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Rockford Office
318 N 1st St, Rockford, IL 61107
Phone:(815) 662-0330
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