Tendons are the tough fibres that connect muscle to bone. Injuries to tendons can occur over time or suddenly, usually as a result of some sort of trauma although this need only be minor. Commonly tendon injuries occur in the hand and fingers and the heel and elbow joints.
If injured, a tendon needs to be repaired quickly. Therefore the majority of medical negligence cases we see relating to tendon injuries relate to:
- A misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosing a tendon injury
- A delay in providing treatment/surgery of the tendon injury
Symptoms of a tendon injury will vary and depend upon the tendon injured but typically you are likely to experience:
- Tenderness
- Inflammation
- Swelling or numbness
Because of the nature of the symptoms if a thorough examination and relevant tests are not performed then a tendon injury may be overlooked and incorrectly regarded as a minor injury which does not require treatment.
Depending upon the circumstances of the case the misdiagnosis by clinicians will most likely be with a GP, A&E Department or Orthopaedic Department.
When the diagnosis and treatment of a tendon injury is delayed this is likely to:
- Increase the amount of treatment and surgery needed to treat the injury
- Reduce the level of recovery that can be achieved through treatment
- Cause permanent disability
If you think that you or a family member may have suffered an injury as a result of failures to promptly diagnose and treat a tendon injury then you may be entitled to compensation.
We know that injuries from poorly treated tendon injuries care cause significant problems of pain and disability which can impact upon every aspect of your life. We at Freemans have a wealth of experience in dealing with all types of Clinical Negligence claims and we will work tirelessly to ensure that not only is compensation secured for the pain and losses caused by the injuries suffered but that support and any further treatment and rehabilitation needed can be sought.
Please call one of our solicitors today on 0191 222 1030 for a free consultation in relation to your claim or complete our website enquiry form.
