Post-Injury Pain: What to Do After a Fall - Orthopedics

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After a fall, it's common to experience pain and discomfort in the affected areas, even if there are no visible fractures or severe injuries. In your case, it seems that while the abrasions on your knees have healed, you are still experiencing lingering pain in your left hand, particularly when lifting or leaning on it. This could be due to several factors, including soft tissue injury, inflammation, or even nerve irritation.


Understanding Post-Injury Pain
1. Soft Tissue Injury: When you fall, the impact can cause damage to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the joints. Even if there are no fractures, these soft tissues can become strained or sprained, leading to ongoing pain. This type of injury may not be immediately apparent and can take time to heal.

2. Inflammation: After an injury, the body responds with inflammation, which is a natural part of the healing process. However, inflammation can also lead to pain and discomfort. If the inflammation persists, it may cause ongoing symptoms.

3. Nerve Irritation: Sometimes, the impact from a fall can irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain that may feel like a deep ache or a sharp sensation when you move your hand in certain ways.


Recommendations for Management
1. Rest: Allow your hand to rest as much as possible. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, such as lifting heavy objects or putting pressure on the hand.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for about 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially after activities that cause discomfort.

3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage on the package and consult with a pharmacist or healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

4. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore mobility and strength to your hand. Start with simple movements and gradually increase the intensity as tolerated. If you're unsure about which exercises to do, consider consulting a physical therapist.

5. Heat Therapy: After the initial inflammation has decreased (usually after a few days), applying heat can help relax and soothe the muscles. Use a warm towel or heating pad for 15-20 minutes at a time.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If the pain persists for more than a few weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, bruising, or loss of function, it’s important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, to rule out any underlying issues.

7. Follow-Up Care: If you continue to experience pain, consider visiting a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may refer you to a specialist, such as an orthopedic doctor or a physical therapist, for further assessment and treatment.


Conclusion
While it is encouraging that your abrasions have healed, the ongoing pain in your left hand should not be ignored. With appropriate self-care measures, most soft tissue injuries will improve over time. However, if you find that your symptoms are not improving or are affecting your daily activities, seeking professional medical advice is crucial. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and a quicker return to your normal activities.