Persistent Swelling in Right Pelvis and Buttock After Car Accident: What to Do?

Swelling from the right pelvis to the buttock?

Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about an incident that occurred approximately three years ago.
I was involved in a car accident where a vehicle struck the right side of my body.
Following the accident, my right pelvic area became significantly swollen, and although I had an X-ray that showed no bone injuries, I assumed it would gradually resolve on its own.
However, it has now been over three years, and the swelling has not subsided.
Additionally, the skin over the swollen area has diminished sensation, and when I press on it, I feel a tingling sensation, almost like an electric shock.
I often experience itching beneath the skin, but I cannot pinpoint the exact area to scratch.
While sitting, I also feel noticeable soreness and a sense of fullness.
What could be happening in this situation? If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult? Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/08

Dr. Lü Mingchuan reply Plastic Surgery

You can see either a general surgeon or a plastic surgeon.

Reply Date: 2024/05/08

More Info

After a car accident, persistent swelling in the right pelvis and buttock, especially after three years, can be concerning and warrants further investigation. Given your description of the symptoms—persistent swelling, loss of sensation in the skin, and unusual sensations like tingling or itching—it is crucial to consider several potential underlying issues.

Firstly, the swelling you are experiencing could be due to a few factors. One possibility is that you may have sustained soft tissue injuries that did not heal properly. Soft tissue injuries, including contusions, sprains, or strains, can lead to chronic swelling if the body does not adequately resolve the inflammation or if there is ongoing irritation. This could explain the persistent swelling and the sensations you are feeling in the area.

Another possibility is the development of a hematoma, which is a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often resulting from trauma. If a hematoma was not fully resolved after the initial injury, it could lead to chronic swelling and discomfort. Additionally, the fact that you have loss of sensation and unusual sensations in the area could indicate nerve involvement. Nerve damage or irritation can occur after trauma, leading to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or altered sensation in the affected area.

Given the duration of your symptoms and the complexity of your situation, it is advisable to seek medical attention. You should consider visiting a specialist in either orthopedics or physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). An orthopedic specialist can evaluate any potential lingering bone or joint issues, while a PM&R physician can assess soft tissue injuries, nerve involvement, and overall functional impairment.

During your visit, the doctor may perform a thorough physical examination and possibly order imaging studies, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to get a better understanding of the soft tissues and any potential nerve damage. They may also assess for any signs of chronic inflammation or other complications that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In the meantime, managing your symptoms with conservative measures may be beneficial. This could include applying ice to the swollen area, engaging in gentle stretching or physical therapy exercises to improve mobility and reduce discomfort, and avoiding activities that exacerbate your symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help alleviate discomfort, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

In summary, persistent swelling and discomfort in the right pelvis and buttock after a car accident can indicate unresolved soft tissue injuries, nerve involvement, or other complications. Seeking evaluation from an orthopedic or PM&R specialist is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.

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