Post-Car Accident Discomfort: When to Seek Orthopedic Care

Regarding discomfort after a car accident..?

Hello, I would like to ask a question.
On the morning of the 26th of this month, I was involved in a minor car accident, which resulted in abrasions on both of my knees, with the right knee being more severely affected.
Additionally, the tip of my right middle finger is inexplicably swollen and painful (there is no external injury, but there seems to be some subcutaneous bleeding).
I went to an emergency department at a hospital, and the doctor advised that the swelling and pain in my knee could be managed with ice therapy, suggesting that I could use ice to alleviate any discomfort.
Initially, the ice therapy did help reduce the swelling, but it seems to have plateaued and hasn't improved further.
The tip of my middle finger still hurts whenever pressure is applied.
Furthermore, over the past two days, I have experienced occasional dizziness (there was no head injury, and I don't believe I hit my head).
A colleague suggested that I should seek further medical attention.
Which specialty should I consult? Or do you think these symptoms are not urgent enough to require immediate medical care? Thank you for your assistance.

IRENE, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/03/28

Dr. Zhang Shengben reply Orthopedics

Right knee pain may simply be due to a soft tissue contusion.
If there is persistent swelling and an inability to bear weight or limited range of motion in the joint, there may be an associated skeletal injury.
The same could apply to the middle finger.
To establish a diagnosis, an X-ray may be necessary, and a visit to an orthopedic specialist is recommended.
As for dizziness, there are many potential causes; if there are no injuries to the chest or abdomen, a consultation with a neurologist is advised; if there are injuries, then a visit to a general surgeon is warranted.
Any discomfort following trauma should be evaluated by a physician immediately, and if there is no improvement or if the condition continues to worsen after seeking medical attention, a referral to another doctor should be considered.

Reply Date: 2008/03/28

More Info

After a car accident, it's crucial to monitor your symptoms closely, especially when experiencing discomfort in areas like your knees and fingers, as well as any unusual sensations in your head. Based on your description, it seems you have sustained some injuries that warrant further evaluation.

Firstly, regarding your knees, the initial advice to apply ice is standard practice for managing swelling and pain after an injury. Ice can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing temporary relief. However, if the swelling persists and does not improve over time, it may indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as a ligament injury or cartilage damage. In such cases, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from an orthopedic specialist. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, to assess the extent of any damage.

As for your right middle finger, the swelling and pain you are experiencing, especially without any visible external injury, could suggest a soft tissue injury or a possible fracture that may not be immediately apparent. It's important to have this evaluated by a healthcare professional, as untreated fractures or significant soft tissue injuries can lead to long-term complications, including chronic pain or impaired function.

The symptoms you describe regarding your head, such as feeling dizzy or lightheaded, are particularly concerning. Even though you mentioned there was no direct trauma to your head, it's essential to rule out any potential concussion or other neurological issues that could arise from the accident. Symptoms like dizziness can sometimes be indicative of a concussion, which is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Therefore, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your neurological status and determine if any imaging, such as a CT scan, is necessary.

In summary, while some discomfort may be expected after a minor car accident, the persistence of symptoms like knee swelling, finger pain, and dizziness suggests that you should seek further medical evaluation. I recommend visiting an orthopedic clinic for your knee and finger issues and possibly a primary care physician or neurologist for your head symptoms. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and guide you on the appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can help prevent complications and promote a quicker recovery. Don't hesitate to seek care if you feel your symptoms are worsening or if you have any concerns about your health.

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