{"id":6841,"date":"2018-04-29T22:00:49","date_gmt":"2018-04-29T22:00:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/"},"modified":"2018-04-29T22:00:49","modified_gmt":"2018-04-29T22:00:49","slug":"book-of-quantum-2016-ed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/","title":{"rendered":"Book of Quantum 2016 Ed"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/#General\" title=\"General\">General<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/#How_to_use_the_Book_of_Quantum\" title=\"How to use the\u00a0Book of Quantum\">How to use the\u00a0Book of Quantum<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/#1_Head_Injuries\" title=\"1. Head Injuries\">1. Head Injuries<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/#2_Neck_Injuries\" title=\"2. Neck Injuries\">2. Neck Injuries<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/#3_Back_Injuries_and_Spinal_Fractures\" title=\"3. Back Injuries and\u00a0Spinal Fractures\">3. Back Injuries and\u00a0Spinal Fractures<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/#4_Upper_Limb_Injuries\" title=\"4. Upper Limb Injuries\">4. Upper Limb Injuries<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/#4_Upper_Limb_Injuries-2\" title=\"4. Upper Limb Injuries\">4. Upper Limb Injuries<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/#5_Lower_Limb_Injuries\" title=\"5. Lower Limb Injuries\">5. Lower Limb Injuries<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/book-of-quantum-2016-ed\/#6_Body_and_Internal_Organs\" title=\"6. Body and\u00a0Internal Organs\">6. Body and\u00a0Internal Organs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"General\"><\/span>General<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In compiling this document, the consultants examined representative samples from over 51,000<br \/>\nclosed personal injuries claims from 2013 and 2014 based on actual figures from Court cases,<br \/>\ninsurance company settlements, State Claims Agency cases and Personal Injuries Assessment<br \/>\nBoard (PIAB) data.<\/p>\n<p>In essence, the purpose of this publication is to distil settlement and awards data in the personal<br \/>\ninjuries process in Ireland and to present the results in a logical and easy-to-examine format. The<br \/>\nresult shows the prevailing range of payment for injuries based on research into real cases. The<br \/>\nvalues quoted do not represent the views of the consultants or any other parties and reflect the<br \/>\nreality of prevailing compensation levels.<\/p>\n<p>The resulting guidelines show in more detail than the original Book of Quantum the ranges being<br \/>\npaid in Ireland by the various bodies in the injuries claims area in respect of compensation for pain<br \/>\nand suffering.<\/p>\n<p>Apart from the updating of figures to reflect the prevailing level of damages in respect of various<br \/>\ninjuries, the new Guidelines publication has been expanded. It now includes additional injuries<br \/>\nsuch as concussion, partial finger amputations, clavicle injuries, upper limb disorders, Achilles<br \/>\ntendon injuries, lung lacerations, food poisoning and other categories. Those injuries were not<br \/>\nincluded in the previous Guidelines because of the lack of available data at the time.<\/p>\n<p>There is also improved granularity in respect of certain injuries\/conditions for example cheek and<br \/>\nnasal injuries, neck, back and finger injuries, dermatitis, and injuries and conditions affecting the<br \/>\nhip, knee, ankle, foot, lung and lower leg.<\/p>\n<p>The Guidelines are intended to provide an indication as to the potential range of compensation<br \/>\nfor a particular injury. It is expected that every claim will continue to be dealt with on its individual<br \/>\nmerits. It is hoped that the Guidelines will provide assistance to all those involved in resolving<br \/>\npersonal injury claims by making the level of damages more predictable and consistent throughout<br \/>\nthe injury compensation system. It is hoped that the use of this document will further progress a<br \/>\nless adversarial approach to the compensation of personal injury claims in Ireland.<\/p>\n<p>Foreword<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_use_the_Book_of_Quantum\"><\/span>How to use the\u00a0Book of Quantum<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This book only reflects compensation for pain and suffering which is supported by appropriate medical<br \/>\nevidence. An assessment has a number of components, covering some or all of the following:<br \/>\n\u2022 A sum to compensate for pain, suffering and loss of enjoyment of life<br \/>\n\u2022 Specific losses such as past loss of earnings and medical bills<br \/>\n\u2022 Future cost of medical care<br \/>\n\u2022 Loss of earnings into the future caused by the injury<\/p>\n<p>A claim will be assessed in its entirety including all components appropriate to the case that have been<br \/>\nvouched.<\/p>\n<p>Follow the steps set out below to understand what assessment range may be appropriate for an injury:<br \/>\n1. Identify a category of injury<br \/>\n2. Understand the severity of the injury using the medical report on the claimant<br \/>\n3. Look up the value range<br \/>\n4. Consider the effect of multiple injuries<\/p>\n<p>1. Identify a category of injury<br \/>\nAssessment of compensation starts by identifying that part of the body that has suffered the most significant<br \/>\ninjury although the complete effect of all the injuries will be considered.<br \/>\nThe Book is separated into six categories. Head Neck Back &amp; Spinal\u00a0Upper Limbs Lower Limbs Body &amp; Internal Organs<br \/>\nConsult the Contents page for the specific injury category and type, which will direct you to the relevant<br \/>\npage. Injuries are then generally categorised into levels of severity with a range of values provided for each<br \/>\nlevel as a guide. Some ranges are quite wide, reflecting how the same injury can have very different effects<br \/>\non different people. Compensation may be payable for injury types other than those that appear in this book.<\/p>\n<p>2. Understanding the Severity of the injury<br \/>\nGenerally the severity is categorised into the following broad ranges to reflect the degree of disruption to<br \/>\nlifestyle, pain and permanency of the condition. However, there are some injuries that by their nature may<br \/>\nhave more, or less severity categories.<br \/>\n\u2022 Minor<br \/>\nInjuries that have substantially recovered.<br \/>\n\u2022 Moderate<br \/>\nIncludes injuries from which a claimant has substantially recovered but there are ongoing symptoms that<br \/>\ninterfere with carrying out full day to day activities. Recovery will be achieved from these types of injuries.<br \/>\n\u2022 Moderately Severe<br \/>\nIncludes moderate injuries and in addition the injury has resulted in some permanent incapacity or<br \/>\nlimitation that impacts the body part which has been injured.<br \/>\n\u2022 Severe and Permanent Conditions<br \/>\nWill apply if the injury is severe and has caused major disruption to a claimants life in a number of areas or<br \/>\nresults in serious continuing pain and\/or requires permanent medical attention.<\/p>\n<p>3. Look up the value range<br \/>\nAfter identifying the category and severity of the injury go to the relevant section (as set out in the Contents<br \/>\npage) where the guideline values are detailed. The majority of injuries fall within that range but it is neither a<br \/>\nminimum nor a maximum for individual cases.<\/p>\n<p>4. Consider the effect of multiple injuries<br \/>\nIf in addition to the most significant injury as outlined above there are other injuries, it is not appropriate to<br \/>\nsimply add up values for all the different injuries to determine the amount of compensation. Where additional<br \/>\ninjuries arise there is likely to be an adjustment within the value range.<br \/>\n** Please note that all claims need to be supported by medical evidence.<\/p>\n<p>How to use the Book of Quantum \u2013 flow chart<br \/>\n1. Identify\u00a0category of\u00a0injury<br \/>\nIdentify the part of the body that suffered the most significant injury (complete\u00a0effect of all injuries will be considered at a later stage):<br \/>\n\u2022 Head<br \/>\n\u2022 Neck<br \/>\n\u2022 Back and Spine<br \/>\n\u2022 Upper Limbs<br \/>\n\u2022 Lower Limbs<br \/>\n\u2022 Body and Internal Organs<\/p>\n<p>2. Understand\u00a0severity of\u00a0injury<br \/>\nGenerally, severity is categorised into the following broad ranges to reflect the\u00a0 degree of disruption to lifestyle, pain and permanency of the condition:<br \/>\n\u2022 Minor<br \/>\n\u2022 Moderate<br \/>\n\u2022 Moderately severe<br \/>\n\u2022 Severe and Permanent<\/p>\n<p>3. Look up\u00a0range value<br \/>\nMajority of cases fall within the range but it is neither a minimum nor a\u00a0maximum for individual cases<\/p>\n<p>4. Consider\u00a0effect of\u00a0multiple injuries<br \/>\nIf, in addition to the most significant injury, there are other injuries, it is not<br \/>\nappropriate to add up values to determine the amount of compensation. Where<br \/>\nadditional injuries arise there is likely to be an adjustment within the value range<br \/>\n1. Head Injuries 2. Neck Injuries 3. Back and Spinal Injuries 4. Upper Limb Injuries 5. Lower Limb Injuries 6. Body and Internal Organs<\/p>\n<p>Sample assessment<br \/>\nClaimant sustained soft tissue injuries and the award was assessed on the following basis:<br \/>\nGeneral Damages for pain and suffering \u20ac7,200<br \/>\nSpecial Damages<br \/>\nNet loss of earnings \u20ac400<br \/>\nMedication \u20ac126<br \/>\nPhysiotherapy \u20ac200<br \/>\nDoctors fees \u20ac150<br \/>\nTotal settlement \u20ac8,076<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Head_Injuries\"><\/span>1. Head Injuries<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A. Head\/Skull<\/p>\n<p>Skull fractures are classified as being linear (most common), depressed or<br \/>\ncomminuted fractures that are further classified as closed (simple) or open<br \/>\n(compound). A closed fracture is one in which there is no break in the skin.<br \/>\nIntracranial injuries, including brain contusions and lacerations are severe head<br \/>\ninjuries. It is difficult to be too specific about the compensation levels for these<br \/>\ntypes of injuries due to the high number of variables involved and the number and<br \/>\nseverity of possible outcomes (e.g. personality and behavioural disorders). As with<br \/>\nall injuries, each one will differ and be considered on its individual merits with the<br \/>\nfigures being displayed here as a rough guide.<br \/>\nHead injuries may also be rated in accordance with the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)<br \/>\nwhich grades a person depending upon the level of consciousness and therefore<br \/>\nlevel of potential injury to the brain.<\/p>\n<p>Concussion \u2013 Head Injury<\/p>\n<p>Symptoms of a concussion injury commonly includes headaches, dizziness and<br \/>\nnausea. Permanent symptoms may result but most cases recover.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac21,800<\/p>\n<p>No loss of consciousness<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac19,000 to \u20ac35,200<br \/>\nLoss of consciousness less than 24 hours<br \/>\nSevere \u20ac41,600 to \u20ac74,000<\/p>\n<p>Loss of consciousness more than 24 hours<br \/>\nSkull Fracture (no loss of consciousness)\/Minor Head Injuries<br \/>\nUnder this category there will be little if any disability resulting from the head<br \/>\ninjury.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac34,700 to \u20ac60,200<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac54,200 to \u20ac91,800<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac73,400 to \u20ac105,000<\/p>\n<p>1. Head Injuries<\/p>\n<p>Skull Fracture (with loss of consciousness)\/Moderate Head Injuries<br \/>\nThis category will include an injury that would have had an impact on the state of\u00a0consciousness<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac34,700 to \u20ac66,600<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac54,200 to \u20ac98,200<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac73,400 to \u20ac124,000<\/p>\n<p>Skull Fracture (with loss of consciousness)\/Severe Head Injuries<br \/>\nThe severity of injury will depend on the degree of awareness and response to<br \/>\nsurroundings, the duration of unconscious state and any impact on personality<br \/>\nor behaviour, once the injury has stabilised. There may be a greater risk of future<br \/>\nepilepsy with this level of injury, which should also be considered.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac52,800 to \u20ac124,000<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac68,200 to \u20ac128,000<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions (excluding brain damage) \u20ac87,400 to \u20ac144,000<\/p>\n<p>B. Eye Injuries<br \/>\nAffecting Sight<br \/>\nInjuries in this category range from the most devastating where sight has been<br \/>\ncompletely lost, through to transient injury to the eye with minimal impact on\u00a0vision.<br \/>\nTransient\/Minor Eye Injuries up to \u20ac9,800<br \/>\nThese injuries will include being struck in the eye, having an item in the eye and<br \/>\nbeing splashed with liquid, which may cause pain and have a temporary impact\u00a0on sight.<br \/>\nReduced Loss of Sight in One Eye \u20ac22,500 to \u20ac45,400<br \/>\nThe amount of the assessment will need to consider the degree of sight that\u00a0remains.<br \/>\nTotal Loss of Sight in One Eye up to \u20ac138,000<br \/>\nThe amount of the assessment will need to consider the degree of sight in the<br \/>\nremaining eye.<br \/>\nTotal Blindness<br \/>\nCases where total blindness has occurred would need to consider several factors<br \/>\nin order to assess the value.<br \/>\nSuch factors would include, age at the time of the accident, occupation, lifestyle,<br \/>\ncosmetic or disfiguring features, prosthetic requirement.<\/p>\n<p>C. Injuries Affecting Hearing<br \/>\nCases where the hearing has been affected would need to consider several factors<br \/>\nin order to assess the value. Considerations would need to include, if the impact<br \/>\nof the injury was immediate or a gradual loss over time, the age at the time of the<br \/>\nloss and if balance has or will be affected by the injury. There is a separate guide<br \/>\navailable to assist in the assessment of hearing loss. Please refer to The Report of<br \/>\nthe Expert Hearing Group (The Green Book).<\/p>\n<p>The gender and age are factors to determine the exact level of severity. Serious<br \/>\ninjuries are likely to have an element of disfigurement attached to them and will<br \/>\nbe considered accordingly.<\/p>\n<p>Fracture of the Cheek<br \/>\nCheek fractures (the zygoma bone) tend to be unilateral (i.e. one-side only) and<br \/>\nresult in flattening of the cheek. Eye socket fractures often accompany cheek<br \/>\nfractures resulting in changes in appearance of the eyeball such as a sunken<br \/>\nappearance. Nerve injuries are also often seen with cheek fractures sometimes<br \/>\nleaving ongoing symptoms (e.g. tingling sensation) of the face. Le Forte fractures<br \/>\nto the facial bones would also fall into this category.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac21,200 to \u20ac42,200<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture to the cheek bone which has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac37,700 to \u20ac47,300<br \/>\nFractures to the cheek bone(s) that have required surgery with either a complete<br \/>\nrecovery expected or minimal cosmetic effect.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac47,500 to \u20ac55,600<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the cheek bones which required extensive<br \/>\nsurgery and extended healing but may result in an incomplete union with lasting<br \/>\nconsequences that may include numbness to the face.<\/p>\n<p>Nose Fractures<br \/>\nBecause of its prominence (and therefore vulnerability) and structural weakness,<br \/>\nthe nose is the most frequently fractured facial bone.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac18,000 to \u20ac22,100<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture to the nose which has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac22,100 to \u20ac32,200<br \/>\nFracture(s) to the nasal bone that may have required surgery where a full recovery<br \/>\nis expected or minimal cosmetic effect.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac32,400 to \u20ac46,600<br \/>\nNasal fractures that have required surgery which may have had some short term<br \/>\nconsequences on the ability to smell.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac44,500 to \u20ac63,900<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the nasal bones which required extensive<br \/>\nsurgery and may have lasting consequences on the ability to smell.<\/p>\n<p>Jaw \u2013 Soft Tissue<br \/>\nA jaw sprain is an unusual sprain. This category is for sprains of the joint between<br \/>\nthe top and bottom jaws (the temporomandibular joint).<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac11,000 to \u20ac20,800<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament, and often<br \/>\nno jaw movement is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling<br \/>\nwhich has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac19,500 to \u20ac27,600<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, and reduced function<br \/>\nof the jaw. These sprains may have caused some impact on diet but a full recovery<br \/>\nis expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac25,900 to \u20ac52,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will be the most severe and will include where the movement of the<br \/>\njaw is restricted due to the ligament or muscle damage. Extensive surgery may\u00a0have been required.<br \/>\nThese severe sprains will have required a change in diet and result in ongoing pain,<br \/>\npossibly clicking of the jaw and also a possibility of restriction on opening of the\u00a0mouth.<\/p>\n<p>Jaw \u2013 Dislocation<br \/>\nA jaw dislocation is a dislocation of the lower jawbone (mandible). Jaw dislocations<br \/>\nare usually reduced by closed manipulation. Analgesics and a soft diet may be<br \/>\nprescribed or even a cervical collar.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac21,200 to \u20ac35,400<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint to<br \/>\nbe replaced back into the original position and has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac36,100 to \u20ac63,300<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment with a<br \/>\nfull recovery expected. These dislocations may have caused some impact on diet.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac52,700 to \u20ac68,600<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some loss of<br \/>\nmovement and the jaw being more susceptible to future dislocation. These severe<br \/>\ndislocations may have required a change in diet and also a possibility of restriction<br \/>\non the opening of the mouth.<\/p>\n<p>Jaw \u2013 Fracture<br \/>\nAfter the nose, the jaw (mandible) is the most commonly fractured facial bone.<br \/>\nSome jaw fractures may be very simple and require only observation and soft diet<br \/>\nor with just bandage immobilisation but the more severe fractures will require<br \/>\ninternal fixation with the use of wires.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac21,200 to \u20ac47,100<br \/>\nSimple fracture to either the top or bottom jaw bone which has substantially\u00a0recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac35,900 to \u20ac74,900<br \/>\nFractures to the jaw bone(s) that may have required surgery with either a full<br \/>\nrecovery expected or minimal cosmetic effect. These fractures may have caused<br \/>\nsome impact on diet.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac52,700 to \u20ac80,200<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the jaw which required extensive surgery and<br \/>\nextended healing but may result in an incomplete union. These severe fractures<br \/>\nmay have required a change in diet and also a possibility of restriction on the<br \/>\nopening of the mouth.<\/p>\n<p>E. Damage to the Teeth<br \/>\nFor these injuries there will generally have been a course of treatment. The level of<br \/>\nseverity and amount will vary depending upon the degree of discomfort and the<br \/>\nextent of such treatment. Any difficulty with eating is also a consideration.<br \/>\nLoss of Milk Tooth \u20ac4,400 to \u20ac7,000<br \/>\nBroken Tooth \u20ac7,500 to \u20ac10,300<br \/>\nLoss of One Tooth \u20ac10,300 to \u20ac12,700<br \/>\nThe impact of the loss of more than one tooth<br \/>\nThere are several factors that need to be considered when calculating the<br \/>\nassessment for loss of multiple teeth. Such factors would include, the number of<br \/>\nteeth affected, location of the teeth, the level of previous dental hygiene, cosmetic<br \/>\neffect, possible impacts on the requirement to change to a softer food diet.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Neck_Injuries\"><\/span>2. Neck Injuries<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Whiplash\/Soft Tissue<br \/>\nThe most common type of neck injury is called a \u201cwhiplash\u201d injury which is an<br \/>\nover extension or sprain often suffered in a motor vehicle accident or high impact<br \/>\nslip\/trip\/fall type of accidents.<br \/>\nWhiplash injuries can involve a very minor sprain that heals within days or weeks<br \/>\nor they can in extreme cases cause long lasting pain and permanent disability.<br \/>\nSometimes a neck strain can irritate or aggravate a pre-existing condition that may<br \/>\nor may not have been treated before the accident. These can include disc lesions,<br \/>\nspondylosis, osteoarthritis, spondylolisthesis.<br \/>\nMinor \u2013 substantially recovered up to \u20ac15,700<br \/>\nMinor \u2013 a full recovery expected up to \u20ac19,400<br \/>\nThese injuries are minor soft tissue, whiplash injuries. Whilst the duration of<br \/>\nsymptoms will be of importance, there are also other factors that need to be<br \/>\nconsidered when calculating the assessment. Such factors would include the<br \/>\nnature of the neck injury, the intensity of the pain and extent of the symptoms,<br \/>\nthe presence of additional symptoms in the back or shoulder areas, the impact<br \/>\nof the injuries on the persons ability to work and\/or the extent of the treatment.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac20,400 to \u20ac30,200<br \/>\nThese injuries would be moderate soft tissue injuries where the period of recovery<br \/>\nhas been protracted and where there remains an increased vulnerability to further<br \/>\ntrauma. Also within this bracket would be injuries which may have accelerated or<br \/>\nexacerbated a pre-existing condition over a period of time, usually no more than<br \/>\nfive years.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac34,400 to \u20ac52,200<br \/>\nThese injuries involve the soft tissue or wrenching type injury of the more severe<br \/>\ntype resulting in serious limitation of movement, recurring pain, stiffness and<br \/>\ndiscomfort and the possible need for surgery or increased vulnerability to further<br \/>\ntrauma. This would also include injuries which may have accelerated and\/or<br \/>\nexacerbated a pre-existing condition over a prolonged period of time, usually more<br \/>\nthan five years resulting in ongoing pain and stiffness.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent \u20ac44,600 to \u20ac77,900<br \/>\nThe most severe category. These injuries will have also affected the structure<br \/>\nof the neck and the discs, resulting in serious limitation of movement and the<br \/>\nrequirement for surgery. Little or no movement regained on a permanent basis<br \/>\nresulting in ongoing pain and stiffness with the necessity to wear a collar for long<br \/>\nperiods in the day.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Back_Injuries_and_Spinal_Fractures\"><\/span>3. Back Injuries and\u00a0Spinal Fractures<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A. Back<br \/>\nSerious injuries may involve partial or complete damage to the spinal nerves,<br \/>\nserious exacerbation of disc lesions requiring fusing of vertebra, irritation of a<br \/>\nspinal nerve root, and those most severe back injuries involving paralysis, or other<br \/>\nsevere consequences such as loss of sexual function or loss or impairment of<br \/>\nurinary or bladder function.<br \/>\nSoft Tissue<br \/>\nThese injuries would include an over extension or sprain often suffered in a motor<br \/>\nvehicle accident or high impact slips\/trips\/falls type of accidents.<br \/>\nMinor \u2013 substantially recovered up to \u20ac14,800<br \/>\nMinor \u2013 a full recovery expected up to \u20ac18,400<br \/>\nThese injuries are minor soft tissue injuries. Whilst the duration of symptoms will<br \/>\nbe of importance, there are also other factors that need to be considered when<br \/>\ncalculating the assessment. Such factors would include the nature of the back<br \/>\ninjury, the intensity of the pain and extent of the symptoms, the presence of<br \/>\nadditional symptoms in the buttocks or hip areas, the impact of the injuries on the<br \/>\nperson\u2019s ability to work and\/or the extent of the treatment.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac21,400 to \u20ac34,400<br \/>\nThese injuries would be moderate soft tissue injuries where the period of recovery<br \/>\nhas been protracted and where there remains an increased vulnerability to further<br \/>\ntrauma. Also within this bracket would be injuries which may have accelerated or<br \/>\nexacerbated a pre-existing condition over a period of time, usually no more than<br \/>\nfive years.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac32,100 to \u20ac55,700<br \/>\nThese injuries involve the soft tissue or wrenching type injury of the more severe<br \/>\ntype resulting in serious limitation of movement, recurring pain, stiffness and<br \/>\ndiscomfort and the possible need for surgery or increased vulnerability to further<br \/>\ntrauma. This would also include injuries which may have accelerated and\/or<br \/>\nexacerbated a pre-existing condition over a prolonged period of time, usually more<br \/>\nthan five years resulting in ongoing pain and stiffness.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent \u20ac52,300 to \u20ac92,000<br \/>\nThe most severe category. These injuries will have also affected the structure<br \/>\nof the back and the discs, resulting in serious limitation of movement and the<br \/>\nrequirement for surgery. Little or no movement regained on a permanent basis<br \/>\nresulting in ongoing pain and stiffness with the necessity to wear a back brace\/<br \/>\nsupport for long periods in the day.<\/p>\n<p>3. Back Injuries and Spinal Fractures<\/p>\n<p>B. Spinal Cord Injuries<br \/>\nQuadriplegia is paralysis of all four limbs with paraplegia being paralysis of both<br \/>\nlower limbs and partial or total loss of urinary and bowel function, due to spinal<br \/>\ncord disease or injury.<br \/>\nThe Courts set the maximum compensation with the exact value being based on<br \/>\na number of considerations:<br \/>\na) level of movement<br \/>\nb) level of pain and suffering<br \/>\nc) depression \u2013 level of achievable rehabilitation<br \/>\nd) age and life expectancy<br \/>\nThe most catastrophically injured members of society suffer great pain and distress,<br \/>\nmay never work or enjoy the benefits of a loving relationship and may remain<br \/>\ndependent on the care of others for years or indeed for the whole of their lifetime.<br \/>\nThe upper range for compensation of this type rests in or around \u20ac450,000.<\/p>\n<p>C. Vertebra<br \/>\nThis category includes all types of vertebral fractures including fracture dislocations,<br \/>\nwedge fractures, chance fractures, burst fractures and flexion tear drop fractures.<br \/>\nWedge spinal fractures are regarded as stable fractures and rarely result in<br \/>\nneurological complications. These occur most commonly in the thoracic spine.<br \/>\nBurst fractures are regarded as stable fractures but may result in spinal cord<br \/>\ninvolvement if there is bone fragmentation.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac32,500 to \u20ac63,300<br \/>\nSimple fracture to one vertebra which has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac54,900 to \u20ac92,700<br \/>\nMay include multiple vertebra fractures that may have required surgery with either<br \/>\na full recovery expected or ongoing minimal pain and stiffness which may impact<br \/>\non movement of the spine.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac76,000 to \u20ac139,000<br \/>\nMultiple fractures to the vertebra with ongoing consequences, but without<br \/>\nparalysis.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Upper_Limb_Injuries\"><\/span>4. Upper Limb Injuries<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A. Arm or Hand Amputations<br \/>\nComplicated traumatic amputations are ones involving delayed treatment, delayed<br \/>\nhealing or major infection. The necessity for stump revision or the existence of<br \/>\nphantom limb pains may also occur. An amputation can also be provided as a<br \/>\ntreatment required due to a severe injury.<br \/>\nLoss of Single Digits \u2022<br \/>\nThere are several factors that need to be considered when calculating the<br \/>\nassessment. Such factors would include dominant hand, appearance, use of any<br \/>\nremaining stump, age, gender and occupation impacts.<br \/>\nIndex Finger \u2013 partial up to \u20ac55,800<br \/>\nIndex Finger \u2013 total up to \u20ac61,200<br \/>\nMiddle Finger \u2013 partial up to \u20ac51,100<br \/>\nMiddle Finger \u2013 total up to \u20ac57,200<br \/>\nRing Finger \u2013 partial up to \u20ac43,300<br \/>\nRing Finger \u2013 total up to \u20ac57,200<br \/>\nLittle Finger \u2013 partial up to \u20ac41,600<br \/>\nLittle Finger \u2013 total up to \u20ac46,400<br \/>\nThumb \u2013 partial up to \u20ac44,200<br \/>\nThumb \u2013 total up to \u20ac80,500<br \/>\nLoss of Multiple Digits<br \/>\nThere are several factors that need to be considered when calculating the<br \/>\nassessment for loss of multiple digits. Such factors would include, which digits<br \/>\nand how many digits, dominant hand, appearance, impact on hand function, age,<br \/>\ngender and occupation impacts.<\/p>\n<p>Loss of Arms or Hands<br \/>\nThere are several factors that need to be considered when calculating the<br \/>\nassessment for loss of arms or hands. Therefore each case will need to be assessed<br \/>\non its individual merits. Such factors would include, above or below elbow, above<br \/>\nor below wrist, dominant hand, appearance, use of prosthetic, age, gender and<br \/>\noccupation impacts.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Upper_Limb_Injuries-2\"><\/span>4. Upper Limb Injuries<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>B. Shoulder\/Upper Arm<br \/>\nSoft Tissue<br \/>\nThis category includes all sprains to the upper arm and shoulder region including<br \/>\npartial and complete tears of the tendons forming the joint capsule (the rotator<br \/>\ncuff), which may result in substantial reduced capacity. The level and duration<br \/>\nof treatment as well as any complications and permanent ongoing disability will<br \/>\ndictate the level of compensation.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac33,500<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament, and often<br \/>\nno elbow movement is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling<br \/>\nwhich has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac22,000 to \u20ac60,900<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, and reduced function<br \/>\nof the shoulder with a full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac34,700 to \u20ac67,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will be the most severe and will include where the movement of the<br \/>\nshoulder is restricted due to the ligament or muscle damage. Extensive surgery\u00a0may have been required.<br \/>\nDislocation<br \/>\nShoulder dislocations range from simple dislocations to severe that include<br \/>\nligament and nerve damage. Likewise, the level of treatment can range from<br \/>\nplacing the arm in a sling to an operative reduction. Once dislocated, the shoulder<br \/>\nmay be susceptible to further dislocation in the future with the increased risk of<br \/>\ndegenerative disease as a result.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac17,500 to \u20ac43,200<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint to<br \/>\nbe replaced back into the original position.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac33,000 to \u20ac70,600<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment with a\u00a0full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac48,400 to \u20ac76,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some loss of<br \/>\nmovement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<\/p>\n<p>Fracture \u2013 Humerus<br \/>\nFractures of the humerus (upper arm bone) may also be described according to the<br \/>\ntype of fracture. For example, transverse, oblique, spiral or comminuted.<br \/>\nThey are most often treated very conservatively by non-surgical means, for example<br \/>\nclosed reduction and\/or cast and sling. Uncommonly, an open reduction operation<br \/>\nis necessary.<br \/>\nComplications of humerus fractures may include nerve palsy and delayed and nonunion and shoulder joint stiffness. Very occasionally, brachial artery complications\u00a0may be seen with shaft fractures. Healing times vary with some fractures being<br \/>\nslow to heal although this depends upon the degree, if any, of displacement.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac36,800<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture to the humerus with no joint involvement which has<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac34,700 to \u20ac64,500<br \/>\nFractures to the humerus that may have required surgery with either a full recovery<br \/>\nexpected or minimal low level ongoing pain but not lack of movement to the arm.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac50,100 to \u20ac83,900<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the humerus which required extensive surgery<br \/>\nand extended healing but may result in an incomplete union and the possibility<br \/>\nof having or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration that may result in<br \/>\npermanent loss of function to the arm.<br \/>\nFracture Clavicle \u2013 Collar Bone<br \/>\nFracture Clavicle (collar bone) \u20ac22,100 to \u20ac44,000<br \/>\nThe clavicle is known for not healing quickly or accurately. Therefore the level of<br \/>\nassessment will depend upon several factors which may include complicated or<br \/>\nsimple fracture, duration of treatment, complications, and whether there is any<br \/>\nongoing permanent disability.<\/p>\n<p>Crush Injury \u2013 Arm or Hand<br \/>\nA crush injury is a serious type of soft-tissue injury and may include fracture, vein<br \/>\nand nerve damage.<br \/>\nTreatment of these major soft-tissue injuries can involve vein repair, nerve repair,<br \/>\ndebridement, repeated wound irrigations and skin grafts. Amputation may<br \/>\nbecome necessary unless the neurovascular viability of the limb or part thereof is<br \/>\nrestored. Any associated fractures and other soft tissue damage such as ligament<br \/>\nand tendon injuries will also require repair.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac14,400 to \u20ac33,300<br \/>\nThese injuries will include soft tissue related injuries and will have substantially<br \/>\nrecovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac32,000 to \u20ac48,400<br \/>\nThese injuries include more extensive damage to structures other than soft tissue<br \/>\nbut with a full recovery expected with treatment.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac43,800 to \u20ac69,100<br \/>\nThese injuries will involve the joint of the elbow and a reduction in movement but<br \/>\nnot of sufficient levels to require surgery.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac64,200 to \u20ac87,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will include more complex and multiple injuries with ongoing<br \/>\npermanent pain and dysfunction to the arm.<\/p>\n<p>C. Elbow\/Forearm<br \/>\nSoft Tissue<br \/>\nElbow sprains are typically treated conservatively. Rest, ice packs and heat<br \/>\napplications and in some cases temporary immobilisation in a sling or bandage is<br \/>\nusually all that is needed. In some injuries, anti-inflammatory medication may be<br \/>\nprescribed and physiotherapy may be of some assistance. Elbow sprains generally<br \/>\nheal without any residual effects and in this event will fall in either of the lower<br \/>\ntwo brackets dependent on prognosis.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac9,200<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament, and often<br \/>\nno elbow movement is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling<br \/>\nwhich has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac8,000 to \u20ac29,500<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, and reduced function<br \/>\nof the elbow with a full recovery expected.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac22,000 to \u20ac59,600<br \/>\nSevere sprains are caused by complete tearing of the ligament or a rupture, where<br \/>\nthere is severe pain, loss of joint function, widespread swelling and bruising and<br \/>\nthe inability to grip or apply weight to the arm. These symptoms are similar to<br \/>\nthose of bone fractures.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac39,900 to \u20ac63,900<br \/>\nThese injuries will be the most severe and will include where the movement of the<br \/>\nelbow is restricted due to the ligament or muscle damage. Extensive surgery may<br \/>\nhave been required.<br \/>\nDislocation<br \/>\nSome injuries require open reduction of the dislocation rather than the more<br \/>\ncommon closed reduction. Complications can arise where vein damage also occurs<br \/>\ndue to swelling and the need to hold the elbow in a flexed position following<br \/>\nreduction.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac21,200 to \u20ac40,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint to<br \/>\nbe replaced back into the original position.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac37,400 to \u20ac70,800<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have taken longer to recover with treatment but with a full<br \/>\nrecovery expected.<\/p>\n<p>Severe and permanent conditions \u20ac55,400 to \u20ac75,300<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in the position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some<br \/>\nloss of movement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<br \/>\nFracture \u2013 Radius and Ulna Bones<br \/>\nIt is more common to encounter fractures of both forearm bones rather than<br \/>\nisolated fractures of either the ulna or radius. If caused by direct trauma the<br \/>\nfracture line usually occurs at the same level in both bones. If indirect trauma the<br \/>\nfractures can occur at different levels. Fractures that involve the joint are usually<br \/>\nconsidered more complicated than others due to the increased impact on limb<br \/>\nmovement.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac22,100 to \u20ac38,300<br \/>\nA simple fracture to either the radius, or the ulna, with no joint involvement which<br \/>\nhas substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac37,700 to \u20ac40,000<br \/>\nFractures to either bones, or more complex fracture to one of the bones or a<br \/>\ndisplaced fracture with a full recovery expected with treatment.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac39,200 to \u20ac81,700<br \/>\nMultiple fractures that include joint which have resolved but with ongoing pain<br \/>\nand stiffness which impacts on movement of the elbow joint or the wrist.<br \/>\nSerious and permanent conditions \u20ac57,200 to \u20ac83,700<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the radius and ulna which required extensive<br \/>\nsurgery and extended healing but may result in an incomplete union and the<br \/>\npossibility of having or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration of the<br \/>\nelbow or wrist joint which may affect the ability to use the arm.<\/p>\n<p>D. Wrist<br \/>\nSoft Tissue<br \/>\nLike other sprains, wrist sprains are sometimes classified in grades: mild sprains<br \/>\ninvolve some stretching of ligaments; moderate sprains involve partial rupture of a<br \/>\nligament while severe sprains involve complete rupture of a ligament. Although the<br \/>\ninjury may last for several months, a full recovery is the most common outcome.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac27,800<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament and often<br \/>\nno wrist movement is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling<br \/>\nwhich has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac21,900 to \u20ac32,900<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, difficulty gripping, and<br \/>\nreduced function of the wrist with a full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac41,200 to \u20ac67,500<br \/>\nSevere sprains are caused by complete tearing of the ligament or a rupture, where<br \/>\nthere is severe pain, loss of joint function, widespread swelling and bruising, and<br \/>\nthe inability to bear weight. These symptoms are similar to those of bone fractures.<br \/>\nDislocation<br \/>\nThe more complicated dislocations will involve serious and permanent conditions<br \/>\nas well as treatment such as open reduction. They may have complications such as<br \/>\nmedial nerve compression and result in a permanent condition.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac19,800 to \u20ac43,500<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint<br \/>\nto be replaced back into the original position which has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac35,000 to \u20ac75,500<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and will have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment but with<br \/>\na full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac54,400 to \u20ac77,600<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in the position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some<br \/>\nloss of movement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<\/p>\n<p>Fracture<br \/>\nThe wrist contains many bones (radius, ulna and eight carpal bones) all of which<br \/>\nmake up the wrist joint. In view of this complexity and variety it is difficult to<br \/>\nprovide very specific ranges for each \u201cwrist fracture\u201d. Fractures that involve the<br \/>\njoint are usually considered more complicated than others due to the increased<br \/>\nimpact on movement.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac19,300 to \u20ac36,800<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture to any of the bones of the wrist which has<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac35,000 to \u20ac45,000<br \/>\nSimple or minimally displaced fractures with a full recovery expected with<br \/>\ntreatment.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac54,200 to \u20ac70,100<br \/>\nMultiple fractures that have resolved but with ongoing pain and stiffness which<br \/>\nimpacts on movement of the wrist.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac68,400 to \u20ac78,000<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the bones within the wrist which required<br \/>\nextensive surgery and extended healing but may result in an incomplete union<br \/>\nand the possibility of having or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration<br \/>\nof the wrist and may affect the ability to use the hand.<\/p>\n<p>E. Hand<br \/>\nSoft Tissue<br \/>\nLike other sprains, hand sprains are sometimes classified in grades: mild sprains<br \/>\ninvolve some stretching of ligaments; moderate sprains involve partial rupture<br \/>\nof a ligament while severe sprains involve complete rupture of a ligament. The<br \/>\ninjury may last for several weeks or several months but a full recovery is the most<br \/>\ncommon outcome.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac21,700<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament, and often<br \/>\nno movement is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling which<br \/>\nhas substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac21,900 to \u20ac43,700<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, difficulty gripping, and<br \/>\nreduced function of the wrist and a full recovery is expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac41,200 to \u20ac67,500<br \/>\nSevere sprains are caused by complete tearing of the ligament or a rupture, where<br \/>\nthere is severe pain, loss of joint function, widespread swelling and bruising and<br \/>\nthe inability to grip. These symptoms are similar to those of bone fracture.<br \/>\nFractures<br \/>\nFractures to the hand (the metacarpal bone(s)) are described according to the site<br \/>\nof the fracture. They may involve the base of the bone, the shaft, or the neck and<br \/>\nhead.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac14,600 to \u20ac32,200<br \/>\nSimple fracture non-displaced fracture with no joint involvement which has<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac30,200 to \u20ac64,800<br \/>\nFractures to multiple bones in the hand or a displaced fracture with a full recovery<br \/>\nexpected with treatment<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac49,600 to \u20ac67,700<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the bones in the hand which required extensive<br \/>\nsurgery and extended healing but may result in an incomplete union and the<br \/>\npossibility of having or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration in the<br \/>\nhand and may affect the ability to use the hand.<\/p>\n<p>F. Thumb and Fingers<br \/>\nSoft Tissue<br \/>\nLike other sprains, hand sprains are sometimes classified in grades: mild sprains<br \/>\ninvolve some stretching of ligaments; moderate sprains involve partial rupture of<br \/>\na ligament while severe sprains involve complete rupture of a ligament. Although<br \/>\nthe injury may last for several months a full recovery is the most common outcome.<br \/>\nThumb<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac21,200<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament, and often<br \/>\nno function is lost although there may be tenderness and slight swelling which has<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac24,100 to \u20ac48,700<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, difficulty gripping and<br \/>\nreduced function of the thumb with a full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac35,600 to \u20ac57,300<br \/>\nSevere sprains are caused by complete tearing or rupture of the ligament, where<br \/>\nthere is severe pain, loss of thumb function, widespread swelling and bruising and<br \/>\nthe inability to bear weight. These symptoms are similar to those of bone fractures.<br \/>\nFinger(s)<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac19,100<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament, and often<br \/>\nno function is lost although there may be tenderness and slight swelling which has<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac21,700 to \u20ac40,100<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, difficulty gripping, and<br \/>\nreduced function of the finger(s) with a full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac33,800 to \u20ac51,300<br \/>\nThese injuries will include multiple fingers of one or both hands to fall within this\u00a0category.<br \/>\nSevere sprains are caused by complete tearing or rupture of the ligament, where<br \/>\nthere is severe pain, loss of grip, widespread swelling and bruising and the inability<br \/>\nto grip or have useful benefit of the fingers. These symptoms are similar to those<br \/>\nof bone fractures.<\/p>\n<p>Dislocation<br \/>\nMore severe dislocations may involve the head of the bone protruding into the joint<br \/>\ncapsule and where closed reduction is not possible and surgical reduction is carried<br \/>\nout. Otherwise, it is most common for reduction to be attempted by closed means<br \/>\nwhere the dislocation is manipulated and pushed back into its normal place. A full<br \/>\nand complete recovery is the most common outcome for these injuries.<br \/>\nThumb<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac14,400 to \u20ac26,100<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint to<br \/>\nbe replaced back into the original position.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac28,900 to \u20ac50,600<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and will have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment but with<br \/>\na full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac41,400 to \u20ac59,000<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in the position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some<br \/>\nloss of movement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<br \/>\nFinger(s)<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac12,800 to \u20ac22,400<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint to<br \/>\nbe replaced back into the original position.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac17,300 to \u20ac40,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and will have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment but with<br \/>\na full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac29,300 to \u20ac51,900<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in the position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some<br \/>\nloss of movement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<br \/>\nFracture<br \/>\nMost thumb and finger fractures are simple fractures and are treated nonoperatively. In fact some don\u2019t require any treatment at all. Whether the fracture<br \/>\nis open (breaks the skin) or closed will have a bearing on the compensation<br \/>\ngiven. Complications such as non-union of fractures are rare but mal-union<br \/>\ndoes sometimes occur with deformity and restriction of function. Post-traumatic<br \/>\narthritis is also a possible late complication.<\/p>\n<p>Thumb<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac30,300<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture with no joint involvement which has substantially<br \/>\nrecovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac29,600 to \u20ac46,900<br \/>\nFractures to the thumb bone(s) that may have required surgery with either a full<br \/>\nrecovery expected or minimal loss of movement of the thumb.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac38,600 to \u20ac54,900<br \/>\nThese injuries will include fractures\u2019 that involved tendon damage that have<br \/>\nresolved but with ongoing pain and stiffness which impacts on movement of the<br \/>\nthumb.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac43,700 to \u20ac62,700<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures which required extensive surgery and extended<br \/>\nhealing but may result in an incomplete union and the possibility of having or has<br \/>\nachieved arthritic changes and degeneration of the thumb joint(s) and may affect<br \/>\nthe ability to use the thumb.<br \/>\nFinger(s)<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac16,600<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced no joint involvement and substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac19,500 to \u20ac44,900<br \/>\nFactures to the finger at multiple sites or more than one finger that may require<br \/>\nsurgery with either a full recovery expected or minimal loss of movement of the<br \/>\nfinger(s).<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac32,800 to \u20ac46,200<br \/>\nThese injuries will include fractures that involve tendon damage that have resolved<br \/>\nbut with ongoing pain and stiffness which impacts on movement of the finger(s).<br \/>\nSerious and permanent conditions \u20ac31,500 to \u20ac56,400<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures which required extensive surgery and extended<br \/>\nhealing but may result in an incomplete union and the possibility of having or has<br \/>\nachieved arthritic changes and degeneration of the finger joint(s) and may affect<br \/>\nthe ability to use the finger(s).<\/p>\n<p>G. Upper Limb Disorders<\/p>\n<p>This category should be used for specific upper Limb Disorders. These injuries may<br \/>\nhave been caused in the work place due to repetitive movement. The severity<br \/>\nand range will depend upon several factors, such as one sided or double-sided<br \/>\nsymptoms, dominant hand, the ability to work, the effect on domestic and social<br \/>\nlife, the capacity to avoid recurrence of symptoms, surgery required or performed<br \/>\nand age at the time of the injury.<br \/>\nTenosynovitis (an inflammation of the tendon sheaths)<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac22,000 to \u20ac29,400<br \/>\nSubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac25,900 to \u20ac34,400<br \/>\nWhere the period of recovery has been protracted.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac38,700 to \u20ac66,500<br \/>\nContinuing but fluctuating single sided symptoms, possibly having had or will<br \/>\nrequire surgery.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac58,000 to \u20ac68,600<br \/>\nContinuing double sided disability with surgery.<br \/>\nDe Quervains Tenosynovitis<br \/>\n(an inflammation of the tendon of the thumb)<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac17,500 to \u20ac18,300<br \/>\nSubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac27,800 to \u20ac32,800<br \/>\nWhere the period of recovery has been protracted.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac33,100 to \u20ac36,100<br \/>\nContinuing but fluctuating single sided symptoms, possibly having had or will<br \/>\nrequire surgery.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac43,600 to \u20ac47,900<br \/>\nContinuing double sided disability with surgery.<br \/>\nRadial\/Cubital Tunnel Syndrome<br \/>\n(compression of the radial or ulna nerves)<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac22,400 to \u20ac32,200<br \/>\nSubstantially recovered.<br \/>\n50<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac29,400 to \u20ac40,900<br \/>\nWhere the period of recovery has been protracted.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac42,400 to \u20ac73,300<br \/>\nContinuing but fluctuating single sided symptoms, possibly having had or will<br \/>\nrequire surgery.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac61,800 to \u20ac76,600<br \/>\nContinuing double sided disability with surgery.<br \/>\nCarpal Tunnel Syndrome (compression of the median nerve)<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac22,100 to \u20ac32,000<br \/>\nSubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac28,300 to \u20ac39,700<br \/>\nWhere the period of recovery has been protracted.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac41,100 to \u20ac71,700<br \/>\nContinuing but fluctuating single sided symptoms, possibly having had or will<br \/>\nrequire surgery.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac60,300 to \u20ac74,100<br \/>\nContinuing double sided disability with surgery.<br \/>\nEpicondylitis (Tennis\/Golfers Elbow)<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac18,400 to \u20ac19,100<br \/>\nSubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac31,800 to \u20ac34,700<br \/>\nWhere the period of recovery has been protracted.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac35,600 to \u20ac37,800<br \/>\nContinuing but fluctuating single sided symptoms, possibly having had or will<br \/>\nrequire surgery.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac47,700 to \u20ac51,400<br \/>\nContinuing double sided disability with surgery.<\/p>\n<p>H. Dermatitis \u2013 Arm\/Hands<br \/>\nContact allergic dermatitis is a reaction of the skin to allergens (substances which<br \/>\nthe body is allergic to). Whilst not confined to the arm and hand, this is the most<br \/>\ncommon area affected. Allergens generally don\u2019t cause skin reactions to most<br \/>\npeople but some are hypersensitive to the allergens which are usually organic or<br \/>\nchemical in nature.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac14,000<br \/>\nThese injuries would cause itching, irritation and\/or rashes on one or both hands<br \/>\nwhich has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac14,000 to \u20ac19,800<br \/>\nThese injuries would include dermatitis to one or both hands, with a full recovery<br \/>\nexpected with treatment.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac32,800 to \u20ac53,700<br \/>\nThese injuries would include dermatitis to both hands, with cracking of the skin<br \/>\nand soreness affecting the person\u2019s employment and domestic capability, with<br \/>\nlasting consequences.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Lower_Limb_Injuries\"><\/span>5. Lower Limb Injuries<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A. Leg Amputations<br \/>\nComplicated traumatic amputations are ones involving delayed treatment, delayed<br \/>\nhealing or major infection. The necessity for stump revision or the existence of<br \/>\nphantom limb pains may also occur. An amputation can also be provided as a<br \/>\ntreatment required due to a severe injury.<br \/>\nLoss of Legs or Feet<br \/>\nWhen calculating the assessment amount there are several factors that need to be<br \/>\nconsidered. Therefore each case will need to be assessed on its individual merits.<br \/>\nSuch factors would include above or below knee, above or below ankle, dominant<br \/>\nfoot, appearance, use of prosthetic, age, gender and occupation impacts.<br \/>\nLoss of Toes<br \/>\nThere are several factors that need to be considered when calculating the<br \/>\nassessment. Such factors would include dominant foot, appearance, balance, age,<br \/>\ngender and occupation impacts.<br \/>\nToe (other than the Big Toe) up to \u20ac48,200<br \/>\nBig Toe up to \u20ac70,600<\/p>\n<p>B. Hip\/Pelvis<br \/>\nSoft Tissue<br \/>\nLike other sprains, hip sprains are sometimes classified in grades: mild sprains<br \/>\ninvolve some stretching of ligaments; moderate sprains involve partial rupture of<br \/>\na ligament while severe sprains involve complete rupture of a ligament. Groin<br \/>\nsprains will also fall into this category,<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac29,600<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament, and often<br \/>\nno function is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling which<br \/>\nhas substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac13,400 to \u20ac60,600<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, and reduced function<br \/>\nof the joint with a full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac60,600 to \u20ac70,000<br \/>\nSevere sprains are caused by complete tearing of the ligament or a rupture, where<br \/>\nthere is severe pain, loss of balance, widespread swelling and bruising, and the<br \/>\ninability to bear weight. These symptoms are similar to those of bone fractures.<br \/>\nDislocations<br \/>\nMore serious injuries may involve an element of severe ongoing dysfunction as<br \/>\nwell as a high risk of degenerative change. Severe injuries may require or have had<br \/>\na hip replacement procedure.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac27,100 to \u20ac45,800<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint<br \/>\nto be replaced back into the original position which has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac45,000 to \u20ac70,400<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal positon<br \/>\nand may have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment but with a full<br \/>\nrecovery expected.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac46,300 to \u20ac86,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation and possibly a replacement of the<br \/>\nhip joint, or have the requirement in the future for such treatment. Once treated<br \/>\nthe joint movement would be near normal.<\/p>\n<p>Severe and permanent conditions \u20ac59,800 to \u20ac94,500<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in position. These may include ongoing pain and stiffness with some loss<br \/>\nof movement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation and the<br \/>\nonset of arthritic changes.<br \/>\nFractures \u2013 Pelvis<br \/>\nWhere the fracture is isolated, i.e. fractured in a single place, the prognosis is<br \/>\nusually excellent. Serious and permanent condition pelvic fractures such as those<br \/>\nthat involve fractures in more than one place and which may cause disruption<br \/>\nof the pelvic ring. These may be treated with external or internal fixation via a<br \/>\nlaparotomy. The fracture may involve complications, such as, and is quite common<br \/>\nin males, injuries to the bladder and urethra. In females there can be a risk of<br \/>\ncomplications in childbirth.<br \/>\nOther risks to be considered are degenerative changes and the possible need for<br \/>\nfuture surgery, for example hip replacement.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac27,700 to \u20ac54,300<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture to the hip or pelvis with no joint involvement and<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac47,100 to \u20ac58,400<br \/>\nDisplaced fracture(s) with a full recovery expected with treatment.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac68,500 to \u20ac86,500<br \/>\nMultiple fractures that have resolved but with ongoing pain and stiffness which<br \/>\nimpacts on movement of the hip\/pelvis.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac79,300 to \u20ac94,800<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the pelvis where the bladder was also damaged,<br \/>\nwhich required extensive surgery and possible fusion of the bones with the<br \/>\npossibility of having or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration in the<br \/>\npelvic joint and may affect the ability to walk unaided.<\/p>\n<p>C. Upper Leg<br \/>\nFractures \u2013 Femur<br \/>\nSerious injuries include those where a risk of future arthritis exists and the level of<br \/>\nthat risk, the recovery period, treatment type and duration and what complications<br \/>\nexist, for example fracture non-union or limb shortening. Fractures that involve a<br \/>\njoint are usually considered more complicated than others due to the increased<br \/>\nimpact on limb movement.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac27,700 to \u20ac59,100<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture to the femur with no joint involvement which has<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac47,000 to \u20ac84,700<br \/>\nDisplaced fracture(s) with a full recovery expected with treatment.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac60,600 to \u20ac97,700<br \/>\nMultiple fractures that have resolved but with ongoing pain and stiffness which<br \/>\nimpacts on movement of the hip or knee joint.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac83,100 to \u20ac102,000<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the femur which required extensive surgery,<br \/>\nand where the outcome may have resulted in the leg being shorter than before<br \/>\nthe injury, and therefore may affect the ability to walk unaided.<\/p>\n<p>D. Knee<br \/>\nSoft Tissue<br \/>\nKnee sprains are sometimes classified in grades: mild sprains involve some<br \/>\nstretching of ligaments; moderate sprains involve partial rupture of a ligament<br \/>\nwhile severe sprains involve complete rupture of a ligament. The majority of<br \/>\nsprains require only conservative treatment and result in a complete resolution<br \/>\nof symptoms with the serious ruptures may result in surgical intervention and<br \/>\npossible ongoing discomfort.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac14,800<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament and often<br \/>\nno function is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling which<br \/>\nhas substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac16,900 to \u20ac23,400<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, and reduced function<br \/>\nof the knee joint and leg with a full recovery expected.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac24,000 to \u20ac75,600<br \/>\nModerately severe sprains are caused by incomplete tearing of the ligament<br \/>\nor a partial rupture, where there is moderately severe pain, loss of movement,<br \/>\nwidespread swelling and bruising and the inability to bear weight.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac65,700 to \u20ac81,600<br \/>\nSevere sprains are caused by complete tearing or a rupture of the ligament where<br \/>\nthere is sever pain, loss of movement, widespread swelling and bruising and the<br \/>\ninability to bear weight. These symptoms are similar to those of bone fractures.<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required extensive treatment and surgery and include<br \/>\nwhere a knee replacement has been carried out.<\/p>\n<p>Dislocations<br \/>\nSeverity depends on whether the dislocation is reduced spontaneously or whether<br \/>\na closed or open procedure had to be performed. Complications such as nerve and<br \/>\nvein damage may also arise.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac22,100 to \u20ac50,400<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint to<br \/>\nbe replaced back into the original position.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac39,200 to \u20ac87,300<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\npositon and will have taken longer to recover but with a full recovery expected<br \/>\nwith treatment.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac55,200 to \u20ac93,400<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in the position. These may also include ongoing pain and stiffness with<br \/>\nsome loss of movement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<br \/>\nFractures \u2013 Patella<br \/>\nMore serious injuries are those involving patella fractures where a severe level of<br \/>\nongoing disability exists, more common in displaced fractures. Displaced fractures<br \/>\nusually require surgical treatment that may take a number of forms, including<br \/>\ntension band wiring or removal of part or the entire knee cap (patellectomy).<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac20,600 to \u20ac47,200<br \/>\nSimple fracture to the patella which has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac37,000 to \u20ac77,200<br \/>\nFractures to the patella that may have required surgery with either a full recovery<br \/>\nexpected or minimal low level ongoing pain but not lack of movement to the knee.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac52,800 to \u20ac89,100<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the patella which required extensive surgery<br \/>\nand extended healing but may result in an incomplete union and the possibility of<br \/>\nhaving or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration of the knee or ankle<br \/>\njoint and may affect the ability to walk unaided.<\/p>\n<p>E. Lower Leg Fractures \u2013 Tibia and\/or<br \/>\nFibula<br \/>\nThis category includes fractures to both the tibia and fibula. A fracture to the<br \/>\nfibula is usually not as severe as that of a tibia. Fractures that involve a joint are<br \/>\nusually considered more complicated than others due to the increased impact on<br \/>\nlimb movement. Complications may arise such as fractures of both bones, which<br \/>\nmay include vein damage, soft tissue damage, mal-union, delayed union and nonunion and joint stiffness at either the ankle or knee or both. Open fractures (where<br \/>\nthe bone(s) break the skin) may be further complicated by infection. Peripheral<br \/>\nnerve damage (peroneal nerve) may also be associated with these fractures.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac49,400<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture to either the tibia or the fibula with no joint<br \/>\ninvolvement which has substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac40,500 to \u20ac70,400<br \/>\nFractures to both bones or a displaced fracture with a full recovery expected with<br \/>\ntreatment<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac68,800 to \u20ac91,900<br \/>\nMultiple fractures that have resolved but with ongoing pain and stiffness which<br \/>\nimpacts on movement of the knee joint or the ankle.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac77,700 to \u20ac96,800<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the tibia and fibula which required extensive<br \/>\nsurgery and extended healing but may result in an incomplete union and the<br \/>\npossibility of having or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration of the<br \/>\nknee or ankle joint and affects the ability to walk unaided.<br \/>\nF. Ankle<br \/>\nSoft Tissue (excluding Achilles Tendon)<br \/>\nAny of the ankle\/foot ligaments may be partially ruptured (sprained) or involve<br \/>\ncomplete rupture. They may be injured in isolation, or together. Ankle ligament<br \/>\nand tendon sprains are commonly classified as minor, moderate and severe.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac23,100<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament, and often<br \/>\nno function is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling which<br \/>\nhas substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac23,000 to \u20ac56,600<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, difficulty walking and<br \/>\nreduced function of the ankle but with a full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac38,900 to \u20ac62,300<br \/>\nSevere sprains are caused by complete tearing of the ligament or a rupture, where<br \/>\nthere is severe pain, loss of grip, widespread swelling and bruising and the inability<br \/>\nto bear weight. These symptoms are similar to those of bone fractures.<br \/>\nAchilles Tendon Injuries<br \/>\nThe Achilles tendon is a major tendon that makes up the ankle joint and is<br \/>\nresponsible for the majority of movement to the ankle joint. Damage to the<br \/>\nAchilles tendon will typically require surgery in order for it to resolve.<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac12,600<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament and often<br \/>\nno function is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling which<br \/>\nhas substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac14,600 to \u20ac25,700<br \/>\nModerate Achilles tendon sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament.<br \/>\nThese sprains are characterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain,<br \/>\ndifficulty walking and reduced function of the ankle with a full recovery expected.<\/p>\n<p>Moderately Severe \u20ac35,900 to \u20ac42,200<br \/>\nModerately severe Achilles tendon sprains are caused by a partial tear in the<br \/>\nligament. These sprains are characterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising,<br \/>\npain, difficulty walking, and reduced function of the ankle. With surgery the<br \/>\ntendon would have been repaired but may have resulted in a permanent loss of<br \/>\nmovement to the ankle.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac41,200 to \u20ac51,600<br \/>\nSevere Achilles tendon ruptures are caused by complete tearing of the ligament<br \/>\nor a rupture, where there is severe pain, widespread swelling and bruising and<br \/>\nthe inability to bear weight. Surgery will have been required and despite this the<br \/>\ntendon would still result in a permanent loss of function of the ankle.<br \/>\nDislocations<br \/>\nAnkle dislocations normally heal without ligament instability and generally have a<br \/>\ngood outcome with little, if any, residual disability. Where the dislocation involves<br \/>\nopen wounds infection is a constant concern and a permanent disability may arise.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac22,100 to \u20ac49,300<br \/>\nThese injuries will have made substantially recovered and may have required the<br \/>\njoint to be replaced back into the original position.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac41,100 to \u20ac77,100<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and will have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment but with<br \/>\na full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac56,800 to \u20ac82,800<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in the position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some<br \/>\nloss of movement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<\/p>\n<p>Fractures \u2013 distal Tibia, distal Fibula and Talus<br \/>\nThree bones form the ankle joint; the distal (bottom end) tibia bone (known as the<br \/>\nmedial malleolus), the distal (bottom end) fibula (known as the lateral malleolus)<br \/>\nand the talus bone (one of the tarsal bones in the foot). Fractures that involve the<br \/>\njoint are usually considered more complicated than others due to the increased<br \/>\nimpact on limb movement. The more severe injuries involve displacement and<br \/>\nligament damage (which may be treated with either open or closed reduction).<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac54,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will include simple non-displaced fracture in the ankle which has<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac39,100 to \u20ac87,600<br \/>\nThese injuries will include displaced fractures to a single bone in the ankle, or nondisplaced fractures to multiple bones with a full recovery expected with treatment.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac79,900 to \u20ac89,300<br \/>\nMultiple fractures that have resolved but with ongoing pain and stiffness which<br \/>\nimpacts on movement of the ankle.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac80,500 to \u20ac93,300<br \/>\nThese injuries include all three bones of the ankle structure which required<br \/>\nextensive surgery and extended healing but may result in an incomplete union<br \/>\nand the possibility of having or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration<br \/>\nof the ankle joint and may affect the ability to walk unaided.<\/p>\n<p>G. Foot<br \/>\nFoot sprains can result from twisting motions or hyperextension forces. The midfoot joints are the areas most often subject to sprains and strains. Foot sprains can\u00a0be acute or chronic.<br \/>\nFoot sprains are treated with the application of ice, possibly the use of walking<br \/>\naids during the acute phase, physiotherapy, protective taping, anti-inflammatory<br \/>\nmedication and possibly analgesics for pain depending on the severity of the injury.<br \/>\nSoft Tissue<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac20,000<br \/>\nMinor sprains are mild injuries where there is no tearing of the ligament and often<br \/>\nno function is lost, although there may be tenderness and slight swelling which<br \/>\nhas substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac19,900 to \u20ac38,400<br \/>\nModerate sprains are caused by a partial tear in the ligament. These sprains are<br \/>\ncharacterised by obvious swelling, extensive bruising, pain, difficulty walking and<br \/>\nreduced function of the foot but with a full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac36,400 to \u20ac54,400<br \/>\nSevere sprains are caused by complete tearing of the ligament or a rupture, where<br \/>\nthere is severe pain, loss of grip, widespread swelling and bruising, and the inability<br \/>\nto bear weight. These symptoms are similar to those of bone fractures.<br \/>\nDislocations<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac16,300 to \u20ac43,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint to<br \/>\nbe replaced back into the original position.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac31,900 to \u20ac71,500<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and will have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment but with<br \/>\na full recovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac47,700 to \u20ac77,500<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in the position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some<br \/>\nloss of movement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<br \/>\nFractures<br \/>\nSimple foot fractures, non-displaced and even some displaced often do not need<br \/>\nreduction. A full recovery is usually achievable. More serious fractures are those<br \/>\nwhere prolonged treatment, permanent disability and\/or future complications<br \/>\nsuch as arthritis exist.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac18,000 to \u20ac34,900<br \/>\nThese injuries will include simple non-displaced fractures to a single bone in the<br \/>\nfoot with no joint involvement which have substantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac34,000 to \u20ac61,200<br \/>\nThese injuries will include displaced fractures to a single bone in the foot, or nondisplaced fractures to multiple bones with a full recovery expected with treatment.<br \/>\nModerately Severe \u20ac49,800 to \u20ac83,100<br \/>\nThese injuries will include displaced fractures or open fractures that have resolved<br \/>\nbut with ongoing pain and stiffness which impacts on movement of the foot.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac65,200 to \u20ac92,900<br \/>\nThese injuries will include several bones in the foot or the heel bone of the ankle<br \/>\nstructure which required extensive surgery and extended healing but may result<br \/>\nin an incomplete union. The possibility of having or has achieved arthritic changes<br \/>\nand degeneration of the foot joint and may affect the ability to walk unaided, and<br \/>\nare so severe that an amputation may be considered.<br \/>\nCrush Injuries \u2013 Foot<br \/>\nA crush injury is a serious type of injury and may include damage to the skin, a<br \/>\nfracture, vein and nerve damage. Treatment of these major soft-tissue injuries may<br \/>\ninvolve vein repair, nerve repair, debridement, repeated wound irrigations and skin<br \/>\ngrafts. Amputation may become necessary unless the neurovascular viability of<br \/>\nthe limb or part thereof is restored. Any associated fractures and other soft tissue<br \/>\ndamage such as ligament and tendon injuries will also require repair.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac12,800 to \u20ac40,900<br \/>\nThese injuries will have included soft tissue related injuries and a full recovery will<br \/>\nhave occurred with treatment.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac14,500 to \u20ac73,900<br \/>\nThese injuries may have included more extensive damage to structures other than<br \/>\nsoft tissue and may have resulted in a degree of permanent damage.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac26,600 to \u20ac78,300<br \/>\nThese injuries will include more complex and multiple injuries with ongoing<br \/>\npermanent pain and or dysfunction to the limb that may affect mobility.<\/p>\n<p>H. Toes<br \/>\nDislocation<br \/>\nThe majority of toe dislocations are relatively minor where reduction is achieved<br \/>\nby manipulation and followed up with a period of foot immobilisation in a cast. If<br \/>\nreduction cannot be achieved by closed methods, an arthrotomy (surgical opening<br \/>\nof a joint) may be required to achieve reduction.<br \/>\nBig Toe<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac11,000 to \u20ac18,800<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint to<br \/>\nbe replaced back into the original position.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac15,500 to \u20ac42,400<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and will have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment with a full<br \/>\nrecovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac27,500 to \u20ac46,800<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in the position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some<br \/>\nloss of movement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<br \/>\nOther Toe(s)<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac10,900 to \u20ac18,300<br \/>\nThese injuries will have substantially recovered and may have required the joint to<br \/>\nbe replaced back into the original position.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac13,000 to \u20ac30,700<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and will have taken longer to recover with extensive treatment with a full<br \/>\nrecovery expected.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac25,100 to \u20ac32,600<br \/>\nThese injuries will have required manipulation of the joint back into normal<br \/>\nposition and may have included more invasive treatment or even surgery to keep<br \/>\nthe joint in position. May also include ongoing pain and stiffness with some loss of<br \/>\nmovement and the joint being more susceptible to future dislocation.<\/p>\n<p>Fractures<br \/>\nMost toe fractures heal satisfactorily with conservative treatment. In some rare<br \/>\ninjuries, surgical intervention is required such as open reduction or a level of<br \/>\npermanent disability may occur.<br \/>\nBig Toe<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac12,600 to \u20ac21,500<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture to the toe with no joint involvement which have<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac20,900 to \u20ac36,300<br \/>\nDisplaced fracture(s) with a full recovery expected with treatment.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac28,000 to \u20ac41,200<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the big toe which required extensive surgery<br \/>\nand extended healing but may result in an incomplete union and the possibility of<br \/>\nhaving or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration of the big toe joint and<br \/>\nmay affect the ability to walk unaided.<br \/>\nOther Toe(s)<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac10,900 to \u20ac20,300<br \/>\nSimple non-displaced fracture to the toe with no joint involvement which have<br \/>\nsubstantially recovered.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac13,000 to \u20ac32,800<br \/>\nDisplaced fracture(s) with a full recovery expected with treatment.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac25,100 to \u20ac33,700<br \/>\nComplex and multiple fractures to the toe(s) which required extensive surgery<br \/>\nand extended healing but may result in an incomplete union and the possibility of<br \/>\nhaving or has achieved arthritic changes and degeneration of the toe joint(s) and<br \/>\nmay affect the ability to walk unaided.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Body_and_Internal_Organs\"><\/span>6. Body and\u00a0Internal Organs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A. Rib(s) or Chest Bone Fractures<br \/>\nAlthough severe pain may follow injury, most rib fractures achieve substantial<br \/>\nrecovery in a relatively short period of time without treatment. Some may involve<br \/>\nongoing residual permanent condition and some have complications such as a<br \/>\npunctured or collapsed lung.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac13,700 to \u20ac45,900<br \/>\nRecovery will have occurred and will have included either the breast bone or single<br \/>\nrib fracture.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac29,600 to \u20ac63,400<br \/>\nMultiple rib fractures.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac49,500 to \u20ac80,000<br \/>\nMultiple rib and or breastbone fractures with ongoing symptoms, and may involve<br \/>\ncomplications.<br \/>\n6. Body and Internal Organs<\/p>\n<p>B. Heart<br \/>\nA heart contusion is bruising of the heart muscles. It usually occurs from severe<br \/>\nblunt trauma to the chest causing the chest bone to compress the heart against<br \/>\nthe spinal column. This trauma leads to an alteration in the heart cells fluid<br \/>\ncomposition which in turn leads to an alteration in the hearts electrical activity and<br \/>\nabnormal heart rhythm. Clinical signs of contusion are left sided chest pain, rapid<br \/>\nheartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating and low blood pressure. Severe heart<br \/>\ncontusions can result in death and therefore are not included in the assessment<br \/>\ncategory below.<br \/>\nHeart Contusion \u20ac18,500 to \u20ac22,100<br \/>\nHeart contusion resulting in a full recovery.<br \/>\n6. Body and Internal Organs (cont\u2019d)<\/p>\n<p>C. Lung Injuries<br \/>\nThe vast majority of lung contusion injuries occur in motor vehicle accidents. It<br \/>\noccurs usually from blunt trauma and severe decelerating forces. Provided there<br \/>\nare no complications and sufficient breathing can be maintained a satisfactory<br \/>\nrecovery results. Lung lacerations can occur through blunt trauma, penetrating<br \/>\ninjuries or from injuries to the rib cage. The lung has many veins and as such<br \/>\nlacerations may result in profuse bleeding.<br \/>\nLung Contusion \u20ac15,900 to \u20ac21,900<br \/>\nLung Laceration \u20ac16,000 to \u20ac31,700<br \/>\nPunctured\/Collapsed Lung<br \/>\nThe normal treatment is to use a tube to drain the fluid and air and to keep the<br \/>\nlung expanded to prevent it collapsing.<br \/>\nMinor \u20ac14,600 to \u20ac17,900<br \/>\nAn uncomplicated recovery will have occurred.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac19,900 to \u20ac42,100<br \/>\nMore complex injury with treatment and or drainage, but where a full or near full<br \/>\nrecovery will have occurred.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac52,600 to \u20ac82,700<br \/>\nPunctured lung with fluid in the lungs and ongoing breathing problems that has<br \/>\nan impact on daily living.<br \/>\nD. Kidneys<br \/>\nKidney injuries are relatively rare as they are well protected by the ribcage. Most<br \/>\nkidney injuries are usually classified as contusions, lacerations, haematomas and<br \/>\nruptures.<br \/>\nContusions are regarded as mild injuries and are treated conservatively with rest<br \/>\nand observation. More severe contusions might involve a period of hospitalisation.<br \/>\nAntibiotics may also be prescribed. Haematomas are treated conservatively where<br \/>\npossible along with observation to ensure the haematoma is not expanding or<br \/>\nhaemorrhaging, in which case surgical evacuation and bleeding control is required.<br \/>\nContusion or Haematoma \u20ac13,400 to \u20ac28,000<br \/>\nLaceration \u20ac21,300 to \u20ac35,000<\/p>\n<p>E. Bowels and Digestive System<br \/>\nThe normal treatment for injuries to the intestines is surgery to open the abdomen<br \/>\n(laparotomy). When the damaged area is located, lacerations or perforations<br \/>\nare treated by suture or in some cases with a patch. External drainage is done<br \/>\nsimultaneously. Major damage might require removal of the damaged section and<br \/>\nthen re-joining the ends. Injuries to the colon include lacerations and bruising<br \/>\nwithin the walls of the colon. Injury can occur to the colon itself or to its mesentery<br \/>\nattachment. Blunt and penetrating trauma is the most common causes of injury.<br \/>\nTreatment of colon injuries includes primary closure, partial removal and colostomy.<br \/>\nPrimary closure is used mainly for smaller wounds and involves suture closure.<br \/>\nColostomy is the surgical opening from the colon to the abdominal wall to create<br \/>\nan outlet for body waste. Colostomy may be temporary or permanent.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac21,300 to \u20ac45,900<br \/>\nTemporary Colostomy \u20ac56,800 to \u20ac73,000<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac61,900 to \u20ac93,900<\/p>\n<p>F. Bladder<br \/>\nBladder injuries, which mostly occur from blunt trauma, are more likely to occur<br \/>\nwhen the bladder is full rather than when it is empty. When empty, the bladder<br \/>\nlies behind the pelvis and is therefore well protected by the pelvis but when full it<br \/>\nrises up into the lower abdomen and becomes vulnerable to trauma. When empty<br \/>\nhowever it is still vulnerable to injuries such as fractures of the pelvis. Bladder<br \/>\ncontusions are bruising of the bladder wall. These may sometimes be described<br \/>\nas interstitial injuries. Minor bladder contusions require no specific treatment.<br \/>\nIf blood in the urine is present (hematuria) observation or catheterisation may<br \/>\nbe required. Severe contusions may even necessitate the use of an indwelling<br \/>\ncatheter for a number of days. Bladder contusions resolve without any residual<br \/>\nurinary dysfunction.<br \/>\nBladder contusion \u20ac14,200 to \u20ac28,500<br \/>\nWhere ongoing loss of function is expected \u20ac24,600 to \u20ac86,000<br \/>\nAny injury to the Ureter (the tube by which urine passes) \u20ac21,400 to \u20ac44,500<\/p>\n<p>G. Spleen<br \/>\nThe spleen is a commonly injured abdominal organ being particularly susceptible<br \/>\nto blunt trauma and motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of spleen<br \/>\ninjuries. The most common types of spleen injury are laceration and rupture.<br \/>\nRupture generally occurs at the time of accident but may also occur at a later<br \/>\nrupture. Spleen injuries often occur in association with other injuries such as rib<br \/>\nfractures but also frequently occur in isolation.<br \/>\nHaematoma\/Laceration \u20ac21,300 to \u20ac44,700<br \/>\nTotal Loss\/Severe Loss of Function or Removal up to \u20ac73,100<\/p>\n<p>H. Hernias<br \/>\nA hernia is a forcible protrusion of a body organ or body tissue through another<br \/>\nstructure. Hernia as an injury in most cases will be encountered as a work related<br \/>\ninjury suffered through lifting.<br \/>\nAn inguinal hernia is a herniation in the groin area and is the most common<br \/>\ntype of hernia; it may be unilateral or bilateral (one sided or both sides). Other<br \/>\ntypes of hernia include femoral hernias, umbilical hernias, parumbilical hernias<br \/>\nand ventral hernias. A hernia may also be strangulated (where the blood supply to<br \/>\nthe protruding organ or tissue has been cut off), obstructed (blocks the intestine),<br \/>\nreducible (it can be reduced (pushed back) by manual manipulation) or irreducible\/<br \/>\nincarcerated (it cannot be reduced by manual manipulation and as such requires<br \/>\nsurgical intervention).<br \/>\nMinor up to \u20ac25,700<br \/>\nUncomplicated single sided hernia.<br \/>\nModerate \u20ac31,400 to \u20ac46,000<br \/>\nComplicated single sided, or uncomplicated double sided hernia or where there is<br \/>\na risk that future surgery may be required.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac46,700 to \u20ac60,300<br \/>\nContinuing pain and or limitation on physical activity.<\/p>\n<p>I. Food Poisoning<br \/>\nThere are varying degrees of food poisoning and the effects will vary from person<br \/>\nto person. Some types of food poisoning will have short term effects whereas<br \/>\nother more serious types may have a lasting effect on a person\u2019s appetite and daily<br \/>\nliving.<br \/>\nMinor to Moderate up to \u20ac14,500<br \/>\nUncomplicated recovery with pain, cramps and diarrhoea continuing, causing<br \/>\nsignificant discomfort, stomach cramps, altered bowel function and fatigue.<br \/>\nSevere and permanent conditions \u20ac23,700 to \u20ac40,300<br \/>\nSevere poisoning with diarrhoea and vomiting diminishing over a prolonged<br \/>\nperiod of weeks but with some remaining discomfort and bowel function over a<br \/>\nlonger period.<\/p>\n<!--themify_builder_content-->\n<div id=\"themify_builder_content-6841\" data-postid=\"6841\" class=\"themify_builder_content themify_builder_content-6841 themify_builder tf_clear\">\n    <\/div>\n<!--\/themify_builder_content-->\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>General In compiling this document, the consultants examined representative samples from over 51,000 closed personal injuries claims from 2013 and 2014 based on actual figures from Court cases, insurance company settlements, State Claims Agency cases and Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) data. In essence, the purpose of this publication is to distil settlement and awards [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[318],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6841"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6841"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6841\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6841"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6841"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legalblog.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6841"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}