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The True Cost of an Injury—And How to Avoid It

By Dustin DeGraffenreid

Have you ever thought about how much an injury could cost you? The expenses go beyond medical bills—lost wages, long-term health effects, and even emotional tolls add up fast. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Direct Costs

  • Ambulance ride ($500–$2,000), ER visit ($1,000+)
  • Doctor visits ($100–$500 per visit), imaging (X-rays: $100–$1,000, MRI: $1,000+)
  • Surgery & Hospitalization: Can range from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands, depending on severity
  • Medications & Equipment: Pain meds, antibiotics, braces, crutches ($50–$1,000+)
  • Rehabilitation & Therapy: Physical therapy, chiropractic care, or specialty treatments ($50–$250 per session)

Indirect Costs

  • Lost Income: Time off work, disability, career impact ($1,000+)
  • Productivity Loss: Impact on employer or personal business
  • Legal Costs: If liability is involved (lawsuits, settlements)
  • Home/Vehicle Modifications: If mobility is affected (wheelchair ramps, vehicle adaptations)
  • Emotional & Mental Health Costs: Anxiety, depression, stress-related health issues

Hidden Costs

  • Impact on Family Members: Time and emotional burden on caregivers
  • Insurance Premiums: Potential increase in health or auto insurance costs
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Reduced ability to engage in previous activities

 

Common Causes of Injury

Many injuries happen in our day-to-day lives.

At Home: Slips, trips, falls, poor lighting, and bathroom accidents.
At Work: Heavy lifting, repetitive strain, falls, and hazardous materials.
Outdoors & Recreation: Biking, running, tripping on sidewalks, or power tool accidents.

 

How to Protect Yourself

Preventing injuries is key. Strength training, balance work, and coordination drills can help keep you safe and active. Don’t wait until an injury happens. Book an appointment today and let’s keep you moving safely.

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