At Speir Buchan we are committed to helping military personnel who have suffered from compartment syndrome during their military service get the compensation they deserve. Our mission is to guide you through the process of pursuing a successful compensation claim, providing the support and resources you need. Compartment syndrome can have a lasting impact on your health and quality of life.
Compartment Syndrome can happen when there is an increase in pressure within muscle compartments. If the pressure becomes too great, these compartments can burst, causing long-lasting damage, disability and, in serious cases, death. The muscles most commonly affected include those in the legs, feet, forearms and hands. Seeking compensation is not just a matter of financial support; it's your right. It can cover medical expenses, lost income, and help ensure you receive the best care and support. Compartment syndrome is a relatively common injury in the military because of the intense exercise regimes undertaken by Service personnel. It can happen after prolonged physical exercise, or because of fractures (for example, following an accident). Our experienced team can help you to bring a compensation claim for Compartment Syndrome.
Acute compartment syndrome
This is normally caused by a sudden trauma or severe injury but it can also happen following prolonged and repetitive exercise. It normally develops after a broken bone or a crushing injury. It is an urgent matter, requiring immediate medical attention to avoid permanent muscle damage. Some of the symptoms to be aware of include intense pain, tenderness in the affected area, muscle tightness and a tingling or burning sensation.
This is also known as exertional compartment syndrome, and develops much more slowly. It normally develops during or immediately after repetitive exercise. Symptoms include cramping during exercise, swelling or bulging of the affected muscles and a tingling sensation. The affected area may also turn pale or cold.
Diagnosing compartment syndrome can be tricky because the symptoms are sometimes associated with other exercise-related injuries. Timely and accurate diagnosis of compartment syndrome is crucial for preventing severe complications. If you or a loved one suspect compartment syndrome, seek medical attention immediately. Here's an overview of the diagnostic and treatment processes:
Diagnosis:
Clinical Evaluation: A healthcare provider will conduct a thorough physical examination, assessing the affected limb's appearance, sensation, and strength. They will also inquire about symptoms and the circumstances leading to the pain.
Intracompartment Pressure Measurement: In many cases, the definitive diagnosis of compartment syndrome involves measuring the pressure within the affected muscle compartment. A handheld pressure monitor, known as a manometer, may be used for this purpose.
Imaging: In some situations, imaging tests, such as MRI or ultrasound, can be employed to visualize muscle and tissue damage.
Treatment:
Effective treatment for compartment syndrome typically involves the following steps:
Fasciotomy: If compartment syndrome is confirmed, a surgical procedure called a fasciotomy is often necessary. During a fasciotomy, an incision is made in the affected compartment's fascia (a connective tissue that encloses the muscles). This incision releases the built-up pressure, allowing for improved blood flow and oxygenation to the tissues.
Rest and Immobilisation: After the surgical procedure, the patient may need to rest and immobilize the affected limb. This is to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.
Wound Care: If an incision was made during the fasciotomy, wound care is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. This may involve changing dressings, keeping the wound clean, and monitoring for signs of infection.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: In many cases, individuals recovering from compartment syndrome require physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength, mobility, and functionality in the affected limb.
Pain Management: Patients may need pain management strategies, which can include medications or other non-pharmacological methods, to alleviate discomfort during the recovery process.
Long-Term Care: In some cases, long-term care and follow-up may be necessary, depending on the extent of tissue damage and other complications.
It's important to understand that early diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are critical for the best outcomes. If compartment syndrome is not treated in a timely manner, it can lead to permanent tissue damage, nerve injury, and even amputation in severe cases.
For chronic compartment syndrome you should normally be prescribed rest and/or be switched to less strenuous duties. Physiotherapy may be of assistance to manage symptoms. Surgery may be considered if your symptoms don’t improve.
Bringing a compartment injury claim, especially in the context of military service, is important for several reasons:
Medical Expenses: Compartment syndrome often requires extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, hospitalisation, and rehabilitation. Bringing a claim can help cover these significant medical expenses, reducing the financial burden on the affected individual and their family.
Disability Compensation: Compartment syndrome can lead to long-term or permanent disability. A successful compensation claim can provide financial support to individuals who can no longer maintain their career in the military or who experience a reduced earning capacity due to their condition.
Quality of Life: Living with the physical and emotional challenges of compartment syndrome can significantly impact of your quality of life. Compensation can help improve your standard of living by covering the costs of necessary accommodations, adaptive equipment, and home modifications.
Access to Better Care: Compensation can ensure that affected individuals have access to the best medical care and rehabilitation services, allowing them to recover to the fullest extent possible.
Acknowledgment and Recognition: Brining a claim can be an acknowledgment of the sacrifices and suffering endured due to compartment syndrome during military service. It recognises your contribution and the hardships you have faced as a result.
Legal Right: Veterans and service members who develop compartment syndrome as a result of their military service have the legal right to seek compensation for their condition. It is essential to exercise this right to ensure that they receive the support they are entitled to.
Preventing Future Cases: By pursuing compensation, service members with compartment syndrome can help raise awareness about the condition, potentially leading to improved preventive measures, training protocols, and support for future generations of military personnel.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that financial support is available can provide peace of mind, reducing stress and allowing affected individuals to focus on their recovery and well-being.
Accountability: Bringing a claim may prompt investigations into the circumstances that led to the development of compartment syndrome, promoting accountability within the military and healthcare systems.
Ultimately, bringing a compartment injury claim is about seeking justice, compensation, and support for veterans and service personnel who have experienced the physical and emotional toll of this condition during their military service. It's a way to ensure that they receive the assistance and recognition they rightfully deserve.
If you have sustained a compartment injury whilst serving in the military or as a vetran, you might be entitled to make a spinal injury claim. We take a civil claim on your behalf for compensation. There are time scales and you should contact us as soon as possible to investigate an action for you.
Time limits will apply to civil claims and these are normally three years from the date you were injured. There may be ways to extend time to bring a claim in special circumstances. You should discuss this with us as soon as possible so that you can explore your options.
In addition to civil compensation, if your injury was caused wholly or partly by your service, you should also make a claim to the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme as soon as possible. We can help you with this as well. There are strict time limits and we would encourage a claim be submitted as soon as possible.
Our solicitors understand the complex and long-lasting challenges posed by compartment injuries. We are here to help military personnel and veterans navigate the compensation. We will ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and their consequences.
If you or a loved one has experienced an accident while serving in the military, reach out to Speir Buchan today. We are here to provide not only expert legal guidance but also an understanding of the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you face. Together, we will work towards securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
