What to Do if You Have Nerve Damage from a Dog Bite

Posted on March 26, 2023

Dog bites happen far more often than you would think. They can leave the victim with severe physical and emotional damage. Nerve damage is one of the most severe outcomes of being bitten by a dog.

The pain from nerve damage can be unbearable and can lead to chronic pain and misery. If you or a loved one have experienced a dog bite that resulted in nerve damage, you may be wondering what to do.

Symptoms of Nerve Damage Caused by a Dog Bite

Nerve damage presents itself in a variety of ways. The symptoms will vary depending on how severe the bite was and how much damage occurred. Listed below are the most common symptoms of nerve damage:

  • Tingling and numbness
  • Persistent, prolonged, sometimes chronic pain
  • Muscle weakness and diminished strength
  • Muscle atrophy
  • Sensitivity to touch is reduced

It is important to seek medical intervention early if you notice any of the above symptoms following a dog bite.

See a Medical Professional

If you suspect you are suffering from nerve damage due to a dog bite, you must seek medical help from a healthcare professional who is well-versed in treating nerve damage. Your healthcare professional will conduct diagnostic tests to evaluate the extent of the damage. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies can deliver much information about how the nerves are damaged. Your healthcare professional will conduct diagnostic tests to evaluate the extent of the damage.

There are a series of treatments that might benefit you if you have suffered nerve damage. Your healthcare provider may suggest the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Pain medication
  • Surgery

Attend all follow-up appointments and follow the instructions your doctor gives you after a dog bite.

Legal Action May Be Appropriate

If you are a victim of a dog bite, which should have been preventable, you may need to speak with a personal injury lawyer about your case. It is preferable to hire one who has experience handling dog bite cases. They will understand your rights and the responsibilities of the dog’s owner so they can give you sound guidance throughout the legal process.

If you are bitten by a dog and choose to file a lawsuit, it is imperative that you collect the following:

  • Photographs of your injuries
  • Any video that may show what happened. Think security cameras, doorbells with cameras, etc.
  • Medical records outlining your injuries
  • Statements from witnesses who saw the attack or can attest to the temperament or how the dog was managed

A personal injury attorney can help you to gather the necessary evidence so that you are prepared to take your case to trial.

Mental Health Care is Essential

While nerve damage from a dog bite can cause excruciating physical pain, the situation can leave you with mental trauma as well. Dog bite victims are encouraged to seek treatment for the following:

Speak to a mental health professional if you are experiencing emotional or mental anguish due to experiencing a dog bite. You may be better able to cope with the impact of the dog bite through counseling or therapy.

Dealing with the Aftermath of a Dog Bite

Following a dog bite, the pain from the injury can be life-altering. If being bitten by a dog is causing you pain and anxiety, seek physical and mental health immediately. When your health situation is somewhat secure, your next call should be to seek legal advice.

Contact Us for Help Dealing With Your Dog Bite Injury Claim

Knowing your rights regarding compensation for your dog bite is imperative. Reach out to one of the skilled, experienced attorneys with The Cashman Law Firm today. We will evaluate your case and help you to recover the damages you deserve after suffering nerve damage due to the carelessness of the dog’s owner.