Post-Car Accident: Ankle Swelling and Pain After Hospital Discharge

After being discharged from the hospital following a car accident, my ankle started to swell?

A couple of days ago, I was in a car accident.
On the day of the accident, I had shoulder surgery and was hospitalized for four days.
My lower leg was impacted during the accident, and although an X-ray was taken, the doctor did not mention anything, so I assume it is just a bruise.
After being discharged, the injured area on my lower leg remains numb to the touch, and any pressure causes pain.
My ankle and foot are also starting to show bruising and swelling on the left side.
When I attempt to squat slightly, I experience sharp pain that radiates to my lower leg.
However, my ankle was not swollen while I was in the hospital; the swelling began after I was discharged.
Since I have a shoulder injury, I have been moving around very little, so it is unlikely to be a sprain.
Could it be that there is a fracture in the ankle bone or something similar? It has been two days, and it looks like it is becoming edematous.

Xiao Jia, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/05

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics

Hello; based on your description, you are concerned about a possible fracture.
Initially, the X-ray did not show any fractures, but there is a possibility of an occult fracture, which typically requires a CT scan for confirmation.
There are many reasons for swelling, including fractures, contusions, and damage to tendons or ligaments.
In most cases, additional medical intervention is not necessary, and your body just needs some time to heal.
However, I would like to remind you that if the condition persists without improvement or worsens, it is important to seek further medical evaluation to investigate the underlying cause.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2018/12/05

More Info

After a car accident, it is not uncommon to experience swelling and pain in the affected areas, especially if there was a direct impact. In your case, the swelling and pain in your ankle and lower leg after your hospital discharge could be attributed to several factors, including soft tissue injury, hematoma formation, or even a possible fracture that may not have been evident on the initial X-ray.

Firstly, it is important to understand that even if the X-ray did not show any fractures, soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, or contusions can still occur and lead to significant swelling and pain. The fact that you are experiencing numbness and pain when applying pressure suggests that there may be inflammation or damage to the surrounding tissues. The bruising you mentioned on the left side could indicate that there was some degree of trauma that may not have been fully assessed during your hospital stay.

Here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms and promote healing:
1. Rest and Elevation: Since you have a shoulder injury, it is understandable that your mobility is limited. However, try to keep your injured leg elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling. Use pillows to prop up your leg while sitting or lying down.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the swollen area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed, especially during the first 48 hours after the injury.

3. Compression: If you have access to a compression bandage, wrapping the ankle can help control swelling. Ensure that it is snug but not so tight that it restricts blood flow.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially considering your recent surgery.

5. Gradual Mobilization: While it is important to rest, gentle movements can help maintain mobility and prevent stiffness. If you can tolerate it, try to perform gentle range-of-motion exercises for your ankle and foot, but avoid any movements that cause sharp pain.

6. Follow-Up Care: Given your symptoms, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend additional imaging studies, such as an MRI or a repeat X-ray, to assess for any overlooked injuries. A physical therapist can also provide a tailored rehabilitation program to help you regain strength and mobility.

7. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If you notice increased swelling, redness, warmth, or if the pain worsens, seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of complications such as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or an infection.

In conclusion, while it is possible that your ankle pain and swelling are due to soft tissue injuries, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions. Early intervention can significantly improve your recovery and prevent long-term complications.

Similar Q&A

Post-Accident Venous Inflammation: Understanding Recovery and Circulation Issues

After the car accident, there was persistent swelling from the calf to the dorsum of the foot, with the swollen area and wound site exhibiting a darker color. After seeking medical attention, the diagnosis was venous inflammation and ankle joint adhesion. Currently, the condition...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
A car accident resulted in an injury to the lower leg, which was diagnosed as venous inflammation and ankle joint adhesions after medical evaluation. Any external injury to the body not only causes direct damage to the tissues due to external forces but also leads to varying degr...

Understanding Foot Injuries After a Car Accident: Symptoms and Concerns

On December 22, I had a car accident that resulted in a minor fracture of my big toe and some bruising. The area from my foot to my ankle has swollen up. I stopped taking medication on December 25, but by December 26, my foot was more swollen than in the previous days. Additional...

Dr. Xie Hongjia reply Orthopedics
Ms. Manda: Hello, it is recommended that you visit the outpatient clinic for further examination. The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Recovering from Ankle Contusion and Periostitis After a Car Accident

Hello, doctor. It has been almost four months since my car accident. My foot was bruised and swollen from the impact. Although the bones were not fractured, I was diagnosed with periostitis. While the swelling has decreased compared to before, I still feel tightness in my foot at...

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
Hello, ankle injuries often lead to swelling, especially after a long day, with the swelling becoming more pronounced in the evening. Complete recovery may not be guaranteed. You can try applying heat and using an ankle brace. Thank you.

Post-Accident Ankle Pain: Understanding Your Symptoms and Recovery

Hello Doctor: I was in a car accident on January 6th of this year, resulting in bruises on my arms and legs. Subsequently, I experienced nausea, dizziness, and sensations of tingling and electric shock in my limbs, along with muscle spasms. I also heard a faint ringing in my ears...

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
Hello! It is recommended to visit an orthopedic specialist for an examination. Thank you!