Post-Crash Knee and Arm Injuries: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

Knee issues due to injuries from a car accident?

Hello, Doctor.
I had a motorcycle accident on July 23rd, where I fell face down, resulting in most of my injuries being on the front of my body.
My left arm, both legs, and knees have bruises from the impact.
After the accident, I only consulted a surgeon to prioritize the wounds from the crash, and due to severe pain throughout my body, I did not see an orthopedic specialist.

As of now, while the bruising on my left arm has faded, I still feel a tearing sensation whenever I reach for something with my left hand, or if I suddenly turn to my left side while sleeping, it causes sharp pain.
My right arm also hurts when I roll over, but I do not experience pain when reaching for things.
When I apply pressure with my fingers, I still feel muscle pain.
Although the surface of the injured area appears to be improving, it seems that the underlying tissues have not healed yet.

The bruise on the back of my left calf has only slightly faded, and pressing on it still causes noticeable pain.
Should I see an orthopedic specialist? Should I ask the doctor to take X-rays of my knees and from my left shoulder to my left arm? My family is concerned that my neck should also be examined to rule out any potential bone displacement or complications like tendon tears that might require surgery.
Given that it has been almost two months since the injury, will this affect the doctor's assessment and the appropriateness of any prescribed medications (like anti-inflammatory drugs)? Thank you, Doctor, for taking the time to respond.

Bu xiang zai pao yiyuan le QAQ, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/18

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, anything related to bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles falls under the scope of orthopedics.
Don't worry, as many injuries still require physical examination and imaging studies.
It is best to consult an orthopedic specialist.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2021/09/18

More Info

After a car accident, it is crucial to assess any injuries you may have sustained, especially when it comes to your knees and arms. Given your description of the injuries, including bruising and pain in your left arm and knees, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist. Here’s why:

1. Understanding Your Symptoms
The symptoms you are experiencing, such as the tearing sensation when reaching with your left arm and the persistent pain in your knees, could indicate underlying injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Bruising often signifies soft tissue damage, which can include muscle strains, ligament injuries, or even fractures that might not be visible without imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs.

2. Importance of Timely Evaluation
While it has been nearly two months since your accident, it is still important to seek an evaluation from an orthopedic specialist. Delays in treatment can lead to complications, especially if there are undiagnosed fractures or soft tissue injuries. An orthopedic doctor can perform a thorough physical examination and recommend appropriate imaging studies to assess the extent of your injuries.

3. Potential Injuries to Consider
- Fractures: Even if you do not feel severe pain, small fractures can occur and may not be immediately evident. An X-ray can help rule this out.

- Soft Tissue Injuries: These include muscle strains, ligament sprains, or tendon injuries. The tearing sensation you feel could indicate a strain or a possible tendon injury.

- Joint Issues: Given that you mentioned knee pain, there could be damage to the cartilage or ligaments in the knee joint, which may require specific treatment or rehabilitation.

4. When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
You should definitely see an orthopedic specialist if:
- You experience persistent pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain medications.

- You have difficulty using your arm or knee, such as limited range of motion or weakness.

- You notice swelling or tenderness that does not subside.

- You have concerns about potential fractures or other serious injuries.

5. What to Expect During Your Visit
During your appointment, the orthopedic specialist will likely:
- Conduct a detailed history and physical examination.

- Order imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, to assess for fractures or soft tissue damage.

- Discuss treatment options based on the findings, which may include physical therapy, medications, or in some cases, surgical intervention.

6. Addressing Concerns About Delayed Treatment
It is understandable to worry about the timing of your visit and how it might affect the diagnosis. However, orthopedic specialists are trained to evaluate injuries even after some time has passed. They will consider your symptoms, physical examination findings, and imaging results to provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Conclusion
In summary, it is highly recommended that you see an orthopedic specialist to evaluate your knee and arm injuries following your car accident. Early intervention can significantly improve your recovery outcomes and help prevent long-term complications. Don’t hesitate to express all your concerns during the consultation, as this will aid in developing a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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