Searing pain. Swelling that won't stop. Skin stretched dangerously tight. This is compartment syndrome—a serious condition that can develop after a car accident. It's not just a nasty bruise. And without urgent treatment, it can cause permanent damage. 

If you're suffering from compartment syndrome after a car wreck, the DMV car accident lawyers at Meyers, Rodbell & Rosenbaum are here to help. Our experienced legal team understands the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you're facing, and we're ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Here's what every car crash survivor needs to know.

What Is Compartment Syndrome?

Compartment syndrome happens when pressure builds up inside a "compartment" of muscle tissue surrounded by fascia (a tough membrane). Bleeding or swelling inside the compartment can cause this pressure to rise dangerously high. There are two main types of compartment syndrome:

  • Acute compartment syndrome. This develops rapidly, usually within hours of an injury like a car accident, fracture, or crushing trauma. It's a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.

  • Chronic (exertional) compartment syndrome. This develops gradually from repetitive strain or overuse, most often in athletes. While not an emergency, it still causes pain and impaired function that needs medical care.

Why Acute Compartment Syndrome Is an Emergency

When pressure inside a muscle compartment gets too high, it restricts blood flow. Muscle and nerve cells begin to die, and toxins accumulate. Without emergency surgery to relieve the pressure, compartment syndrome can cause permanent disability or even necessitate amputation. 

How Car Accidents Can Cause Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome can develop after a car crash in a few different ways:

  • Crush injuries. When a limb gets pinned or crushed in a wreck, damaged muscles can swell.

  • Fractures. Broken arm or leg bones can cause painful swelling and pressure.

  • Deep bruising. Even without a fracture, a hard blow can cause internal bleeding in muscles.

The legs are the most common site, but compartment syndrome can also strike the arms, hands, feet, and buttocks. And it doesn't take a rollover or devastating collision—even a moderate impact can cause this serious condition.

Symptoms of Compartment Syndrome After a Car Accident

Following a car accident, watch for these warning signs in the arms and legs:

  • Intense pain, especially when moving fingers or toes

  • Tightness, swelling, and bruising that become worse over hours

  • Shiny, extremely taut skin

  • Loss of feeling or prickling sensations in the affected limb

Pain and swelling that seem out of proportion to the injury are major red flags. If you notice these symptoms after a crash, get to a doctor immediately. Untreated compartment syndrome can cause tissue death in just a few hours.

Treating Car Crash Compartment Syndrome

Doctors diagnose compartment syndrome by measuring pressure inside the muscle compartment. If it's critically high, emergency surgery (fasciotomy) must be done to cut open the fascia and relieve pressure.

  • Complications can include muscle loss, nerve damage, infection, scarring, and amputations

  • Temporary paralysis may occur in that limb during recovery

  • Physical therapy is crucial for restoring function and mobility

These surgeries and long recoveries cause lost work time, high medical bills, and lasting impairments. Therefore, it's critical to explore your legal rights after suffering compartment syndrome in a car accident.

Car Accident Compartment Syndrome: Your Legal Options

When a crash causes compartment syndrome, you shouldn't have to bear the costs alone. If another driver's negligence caused your injuries, you may have the right to significant compensation through a personal injury claim, including:

  • Medical expenses. Surgery, hospitalization, therapy, medications, and future care needs

  • Lost wages. The income you couldn't earn while recovering or disabled

  • Pain and suffering. For the anguish and disruption that compartment syndrome causes

An experienced DMV car accident lawyer can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf. Don't let concerns about legal fees stop you from getting legal advice. Most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and represent clients on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if you win.

At Meyers, Rodbell & Rosenbaum, we understand the pain and stress a serious car accident injury causes. We're here to help you get the care and support you need to move forward. If you're suffering from compartment syndrome after a crash in the DMV area, you don't have to face this alone.