Pain from Pelvis to Thigh After an Accident

Pain from the pelvis to the thigh?

Hello doctor, it's been over two weeks since my car accident where I injured the left side of my thigh and pelvis.
I still have to walk slowly; if I try to walk quickly, I feel a pulling sensation in the surrounding muscle groups, and I can hear a cracking sound from the bones.
I had an X-ray done previously, which showed no issues, but I still can't sleep on my left side.
Could this be a sign of a hairline fracture in the bone?

Han, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/19

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello, fractures and cracks in the bones can cause severe pain and difficulty in walking.
If you are still able to walk, the likelihood of a fracture is quite low.
If the pain worsens, a follow-up X-ray can be performed.
Even with soft tissue injuries, pain may persist for one to two months.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2023/02/19

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort and pain in your pelvis and thigh following a car accident. Given that you were involved in a collision and have reported persistent pain and difficulty moving, it is important to consider several factors regarding your condition.

Firstly, while you mentioned that X-rays did not reveal any fractures, it is possible to have soft tissue injuries or even hairline fractures that may not be immediately visible on standard X-rays. Soft tissue injuries, such as strains or sprains, can cause significant pain and discomfort, especially in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons surrounding the affected area. These injuries can lead to inflammation, which may contribute to the pain you are experiencing.

The "clicking" or "popping" sounds you hear when moving your leg could be related to several factors. It might be due to the movement of tendons over bony structures or could indicate some instability in the joint. This is particularly relevant if there is swelling or inflammation in the area, which can affect how the joints and muscles interact.

Given that you are experiencing pain when walking quickly and have difficulty sleeping on your left side, it is crucial to continue monitoring your symptoms. If the pain persists or worsens, it may be necessary to seek further evaluation. A follow-up with an orthopedic specialist could be beneficial, as they may recommend additional imaging studies, such as an MRI, which can provide a more detailed view of soft tissue injuries and any potential fractures that were not visible on X-ray.

In the meantime, managing your pain and promoting healing is essential. Here are some recommendations:
1. Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate your pain, especially high-impact movements or sudden changes in direction.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Aim for 15-20 minutes of ice application every few hours, especially after activities that may aggravate your symptoms.

3. Compression: Using a compression bandage can help minimize swelling and provide support to the injured area.

4. Elevation: Keeping your leg elevated can help reduce swelling. Try to elevate your leg above the level of your heart when resting.

5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, make sure to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

6. Physical Therapy: If your pain persists, a referral to a physical therapist may be beneficial. They can provide targeted exercises to improve strength and flexibility, which can aid in recovery and help prevent future injuries.

7. Gradual Return to Activity: As your pain decreases, gradually reintroduce activities. Start with low-impact exercises and slowly increase intensity as tolerated.

In summary, while your initial X-ray results were clear, it is important to remain vigilant about your symptoms. If you continue to experience pain, difficulty moving, or any new symptoms, seeking further medical evaluation is advisable. Your recovery may take time, and following a structured approach to rehabilitation can significantly enhance your healing process.

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