Persistent Leg Swelling After Injury: When to See a Neurosurgeon? - Neurosurgery

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When dealing with persistent leg swelling after an injury, especially one that occurred three months ago, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and seek appropriate medical advice. Given your description of the injury, where you experienced a significant impact while riding an off-road motorcycle, it is possible that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Firstly, the fact that you initially had no sensation in the affected area suggests that there may have been some nerve involvement at the time of the injury. While you are now able to feel some sensation and can engage in various physical activities without issues, the persistent swelling is a concern. Swelling can be a sign of several conditions, including hematomas (localized collections of blood outside of blood vessels), lymphedema (swelling due to lymphatic system blockage), or even complications related to nerve damage.

Given that the swelling has not resolved after three months, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. While you mentioned that your primary care physician indicated that the fluid would gradually dissipate, the ongoing nature of the swelling may warrant further investigation. In this case, seeing a neurosurgeon could be beneficial, especially if there is a concern about nerve damage or if the swelling is affecting your quality of life.

A neurosurgeon specializes in conditions related to the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They can assess whether there is any nerve compression or damage that may be contributing to your symptoms. Additionally, they can determine if there are any structural issues related to the injury that need to be addressed, such as a hematoma that has not resolved or other complications.

In preparation for your appointment, it would be helpful to gather as much information as possible about your injury and symptoms. This includes the nature of the impact, any changes in sensation or function since the injury, and any treatments you have already undergone. Imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, may be necessary to visualize the affected area and assess for any underlying issues.

In summary, while you may be able to engage in physical activities without significant problems, the persistent swelling is a signal that further evaluation is warranted. Consulting a neurosurgeon would be a reasonable step to ensure that any potential complications are identified and managed appropriately. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so it is advisable not to delay seeking further medical advice.