Loss of Sensation in Left Calf After Injury: Causes and Solutions

There is no sensation in the skin of the left calf?

After my car accident, I had stitches on my left calf, and my entire calf is swollen.
After resting for two weeks, I noticed that the skin on both sides near the knee has no sensation and the area seems to be increasing in size.
What could be the issue and how should I address it?

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/11

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! The saphenous nerve is located on the inner side of the knee, while the sural nerve is on the outer side.
There is one main trunk on the inner front of the thigh and another on the posterior side of the thigh.
Therefore, you may have a thigh contusion.
Generally speaking, if the motor nerves are intact, it should resolve easily.
Taking vitamin B12 for about a month will help you gradually recover.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2023/01/11

More Info

Loss of sensation in the left calf after an injury can be concerning and may indicate several underlying issues. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced a significant injury to your left calf, which has resulted in swelling and a loss of sensation in the skin around the area. This could be due to a variety of factors, including nerve damage, soft tissue injury, or complications from the injury itself.

Possible Causes of Loss of Sensation
1. Nerve Injury: One of the most common reasons for loss of sensation in an injured area is nerve damage. When the calf is injured, especially if there was significant trauma or if stitches were involved, the nerves that run through the area can be compressed, stretched, or cut. This can lead to numbness or a tingling sensation.

2. Swelling and Inflammation: After an injury, it is common for the affected area to swell due to inflammation. This swelling can put pressure on nearby nerves, leading to temporary or even permanent loss of sensation if not addressed promptly.

3. Soft Tissue Damage: Injuries can also cause damage to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the area. This can lead to scarring or fibrosis, which may affect the surrounding nerves and contribute to sensory changes.

4. Circulatory Issues: In some cases, swelling can impede blood flow to the area, which can also result in numbness or a loss of sensation.

Recommended Solutions
1. Medical Evaluation: It is crucial to seek medical attention if you are experiencing a loss of sensation that is increasing in size or severity. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination, which may include imaging studies such as an MRI or ultrasound to assess the extent of the injury and any nerve involvement.

2. Physical Therapy: If nerve damage is confirmed, physical therapy may be recommended to help restore function and sensation. A physical therapist can provide exercises to improve strength and flexibility, as well as techniques to stimulate the nerves and improve circulation.

3. Pain Management: Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications to manage pain and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids may be used to reduce swelling and discomfort.

4. Monitoring and Follow-Up: It is essential to monitor the area for any changes. If the numbness spreads or if you experience additional symptoms such as weakness or severe pain, you should return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

5. Surgery: In cases where there is significant nerve damage or if conservative treatments do not yield improvement, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damaged nerves or relieve pressure on them.

Prognosis and Recovery
The prognosis for recovery from a loss of sensation depends on the extent of the injury and the underlying cause. If the nerve damage is mild and addressed promptly, there is a good chance of recovery. However, if the nerves have been severely damaged, it may take longer to regain sensation, and in some cases, full recovery may not be possible.

In conclusion, the loss of sensation in your left calf after an injury is a significant symptom that warrants further investigation. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and a quicker return to normal function.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Wound Healing: Causes of Stiffness and Sensation Loss After Injury

Due to a car accident two months ago, I have a wound on my left calf that does not cause any pain. However, the skin beneath the wound has become very stiff and has little sensation. The wound has mostly healed, but the stiffness and lack of sensation have not improved. When I pr...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! The stiffness may be due to an underlying hematoma that hasn't been absorbed. It's advisable to see a general surgeon for an ultrasound examination. As for the wound feeling itchy, it's actually a sign of good healing and is not a concern.

Understanding Numbness and Weakness in the Left Calf: Causes and Solutions

1. The symptoms are located in the left calf. When applying the same pressure to other areas of the skin compared to the affected area, the affected area feels significantly more numb. The sensations of touch and pain are less pronounced than in the right leg, giving a feeling si...

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology
Hello, it is difficult to diagnose sensory nerve issues online. Please visit a neurology clinic for an in-person evaluation.

Post-Hip Replacement Surgery: Understanding Left Calf Numbness and Nerve Damage

I underwent left hip joint replacement surgery on November 14th of last year. After the surgery, I noticed that the back of my left calf, from below the knee to the ankle, had no sensation. Touching it feels like there is a thick layer in between, and due to the lack of sensation...

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
Hello, according to the letter, the electromyography findings indicate: (1) left sciatic neuropathy, (2) coexisting chronic lumbosacral radiculopathy, and (3) an underlying sensorimotor polyneuropathy may also be considered. Thank you.

Understanding Numbness in Hands and Legs: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you some questions: Current situation: Two days ago, after doing a warm-up exercise, I didn't continue exercising due to time constraints. Shortly after, I started feeling a tingling sensation near my left pinky finger and a bit of tingling ...

Dr. Lin Jianzhong reply Rehabilitation
Dear Mr. Anonymous, It would be helpful to have your medical history and to know if you experienced any symptoms before performing the warm-up exercises two days ago for a better assessment. If the symptoms you described have improved since completing the warm-up exercises, it i...