Convincing a Reluctant Parent to Seek Medical Help for Wrist Injury

My mother has a dislocated wrist but refuses to seek medical attention?

Hello, doctor! My mother was injured in a car accident at the end of July.
She not only refused to go to the emergency room but also does not want to see a Western medicine doctor, insisting instead on treatment from a traditional chiropractor recommended by a friend.
The chiropractor mentioned that it was a dislocation, but after three months of treatment, she still has not recovered, and the bone is visibly protruding.
The chiropractor stated that the surrounding soft tissue has not yet reduced swelling and remains somewhat hard, which is preventing the bone from being repositioned.
I would like to ask if it is really possible that this is just a simple wrist dislocation? During this time, I have repeatedly communicated with my mother about seeing a Western medicine doctor, even having several arguments, but she remains steadfast in her opinion.
This has caused difficulties in her daily life (e.g., she cannot ride a scooter, has trouble cooking, etc.), and she is even at a point where she insists that it is acceptable for her wrist to never fully recover if it means not seeing a Western doctor.
Additionally, due to work commitments, I will not be able to stay home to care for her in a few days, which is truly distressing.
I would like to ask if you have any suggestions or methods to persuade my mother to seek medical treatment? Thank you very much!

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/29

Dr. Zhan Xian reply Orthopedics

Hello Mr.
Chen, I understand your concerns for your mother after reading your description.
If there is visible deformity in her wrist following the injury, it often indicates a fracture, which requires an X-ray for confirmation.
Since it has already been three months, she may have missed the critical window for treatment.
It would be beneficial to communicate with her about the reasons for not coming to the hospital and encourage her to seek medical treatment.

Reply Date: 2020/10/29

More Info

Convincing a reluctant parent to seek medical help, especially after an injury like a wrist dislocation, can be a challenging situation. It’s essential to approach this matter with empathy, understanding, and clear communication. Here are some strategies you can consider to encourage your mother to seek the necessary medical attention.

Understanding the Situation
Firstly, it’s crucial to understand why your mother is hesitant to see a Western medicine doctor. Many people have preconceived notions about traditional medicine versus modern medical practices, often influenced by cultural beliefs or past experiences. She may feel more comfortable with the traditional healer due to familiarity or trust in their methods. Acknowledge her feelings and concerns, as this can help build rapport and open a dialogue.

Educating About the Injury
Explain the nature of her wrist injury in simple terms. A dislocated wrist can lead to complications if not treated properly. While traditional methods may provide some relief, they might not address underlying issues such as bone alignment or soft tissue damage. You can mention that if the bones are not properly aligned, it could lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, or even permanent disability. Use analogies that she can relate to, such as comparing the wrist to a machine that needs all parts to function correctly.

Highlighting the Risks of Inaction
Discuss the potential long-term consequences of not seeking proper medical treatment. Emphasize that while she may feel some improvement, the visible deformity and ongoing difficulties in daily activities indicate that the injury is not healing correctly. Explain that untreated dislocations can lead to arthritis or other complications that may require more invasive treatments later on.

Offering Support
Let her know that you are there to support her through the process. Offer to accompany her to the doctor’s appointment, which can help alleviate any anxiety she may have about the visit. Sometimes, the fear of the unknown can be more daunting than the actual experience. Reassure her that seeking a second opinion from a qualified medical professional does not mean she has to abandon her preferred treatment methods; it can be a complementary approach.

Suggesting a Compromise
If she remains resistant, consider suggesting a compromise. For example, propose that she sees a Western doctor for an evaluation while continuing her sessions with the traditional healer. This way, she may feel that she is not entirely abandoning her beliefs and practices. A professional evaluation can provide clarity on the injury and help her make an informed decision about her treatment options.

Sharing Success Stories
If possible, share stories of others who have faced similar situations and benefited from seeking medical help. Personal testimonials can be powerful motivators. If you know someone who had a similar injury and found relief through medical intervention, sharing that experience might resonate with her.

Emphasizing Quality of Life
Finally, focus on the impact her injury has on her quality of life. Discuss how her current condition affects her daily activities and independence. Encourage her to think about her long-term well-being and the activities she enjoys that may be hindered by her injury.

Conclusion
In summary, approaching your mother with empathy, education, and support can help persuade her to seek the medical attention she needs. It’s essential to respect her feelings while providing clear information about the risks of inaction and the benefits of professional medical care. By fostering open communication and offering your support, you can help her make a more informed decision regarding her health.

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