When victims file personal injury claims, they often only focus on immediate, noticeable injuries. While it’s hard to predict the future, chronic pain usually isn’t considered, and according to the legal team at Pater, Pater & Halverson Co. in Hamilton, OH, it can carry heavy consequences. Chronic pain affects every aspect of your life, and while a settlement may take care of your immediate medical bills, you won’t have anything left over for chronic pain that develops.

Personal Injury Cases: 3 Ways Chronic Pain Affects Your Well-Being

1. Disability

Chronic pain comes in many forms, some of which can be debilitating. Back and knee pain, neck injuries, and head trauma can eventually lead to permanent disabilities. This may cost you your job, keep you from doing activities you love, and require costly treatment. When key areas of your body are injured in an accident, it’s important to have your physician consider the possibility of chronic pain developing. A personal injury attorney can use this to ensure you receive an appropriate settlement.

2. Re-Hospitalization

When pain goes untreated, it can cause new medical conditions to arise. This can lead unforeseen hospitalizations, surgery, and therapy, all of which usually come with pain medications. This costs both time and money, and the psychological effects of the stress alone can be damaging. All of these after-the-fact issues must be acknowledged right away, as once your personal injury case is closed, it’s nearly impossible to reopen it for a larger settlement.

3. Isolation

As chronic pain becomes truly disabling, it can be difficult to even get out of bed in the morning. If you’re unable to work, drive, or even walk to visit friends, you may become increasingly isolated. The effects of ongoing solitude drastically affect well-being and can lead to depression and other mental health issues. These, in turn, can also negatively affect your physical health.

It’s imperative to consider the future when filing a personal injury claim, so keep all possibilities in mind. The legal team at Pater, Pater & Halverson Co. can offer valuable assistance throughout the claim process and will help you secure a settlement that addresses all present and possible damages. Call (513) 867-1411 today to schedule a consultation, and visit their website to learn more.