Hard Lump on Calf After Car Accident: Should I Be Concerned?

The patient experienced a car accident and has a hard lump on the calf with no external injuries?

I was in a car accident two weeks ago, and my left calf was caught between two vehicles.
Since there were no external injuries, only slight bruising, I did not seek immediate medical attention.
A few days later, the discoloration faded, but a small hard lump appeared.
It doesn't hurt much when pressed.
Will this resolve on its own? Since it has been a while and it doesn't seem to be getting smaller, I wanted to ask about it.

Yuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/17

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! It is most likely a blood clot.
Please go to the surgical outpatient department for evaluation.
Blood clots can sometimes take a long time to resolve, or they may not dissolve at all, leading to encapsulation.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2016/06/17

More Info

After a car accident, it is not uncommon to experience various physical symptoms, including the development of hard lumps or swelling in areas that may have been impacted, even if there are no visible external injuries. In your case, the hard lump on your calf that developed after being caught between two vehicles warrants careful consideration.

The hard lump you are experiencing could be a result of several factors. One possibility is that it is a hematoma, which is a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often caused by trauma. Even if there was no visible bruise or significant external injury, the impact could have caused small blood vessels to rupture, leading to bleeding under the skin. As the body reabsorbs the blood, the lump may gradually decrease in size, but this process can take time.

Another possibility is that the lump could be a result of muscle strain or contusion. The trauma from the accident may have caused muscle fibers to tear or become inflamed, leading to a hardening of the tissue as it heals. This type of injury can also result in discomfort or a feeling of tightness in the affected area.

While it is encouraging that the lump is not painful when pressed, it is important to monitor the situation closely. If the lump does not begin to decrease in size over the next few weeks, or if you start to experience additional symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in the area, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the nature of the lump and rule out any serious underlying conditions, such as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other vascular issues.

In the meantime, you can take some self-care measures to help manage the lump and any associated discomfort. Applying ice to the area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, elevating the leg can aid in reducing swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also be used to manage any discomfort you may experience.

It is essential to listen to your body and not ignore any changes or worsening symptoms. If you have any concerns about the lump or your recovery process, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications and ensure a smoother recovery.

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