Persistent Pain and Indentation in Calf: Should You See a Rehab Specialist?

The calf injury feels indented to the touch?

Due to a previous car accident where I injured the inner side of my calf, I initially only felt pain and thought it was just a soft tissue injury.
However, now more than a year has passed, and the injured area still hurts when touched, has a dent, and sometimes I experience a dull ache in that area while walking.
Should I see a rehabilitation specialist for this? Thank you.

sammi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/04/27

Dr. Lai Yanting reply Rehabilitation

Was there bruising and swelling in the calf at the time of the injury a year ago? -- If there was bruising and swelling, it may indicate a tear in the muscles on the inner side of the calf, resulting in a depression in the leg.
-- If there was no bruising or swelling, the depression in the leg may not be directly related to the previous injury.
Common causes of muscle tears on the inner side of the calf are insufficient warm-up before exercise and inadequate muscle stretching, commonly referred to as "tennis leg." For further evaluation, it is advisable to consult a rehabilitation or orthopedic physician to confirm whether there is a depression in the leg.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2009/04/27

More Info

Based on your description of persistent pain and indentation in your calf following a car accident, it is advisable to consult a rehabilitation specialist. The symptoms you are experiencing, including ongoing pain and the presence of a depression in the affected area, suggest that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

When a traumatic injury occurs, such as the one you experienced in the car accident, the body undergoes a healing process. However, sometimes this process does not lead to complete recovery, resulting in chronic pain or other complications. The indentation you mentioned could indicate a few potential issues, including muscle atrophy, scar tissue formation, or even damage to the underlying structures such as tendons or ligaments.

Rehabilitation specialists are trained to evaluate and treat musculoskeletal injuries. They can provide a comprehensive assessment of your condition, which may include physical examinations, functional assessments, and possibly imaging studies if deemed necessary. This thorough evaluation will help determine the extent of your injury and the best course of treatment.

In your case, rehabilitation may involve several approaches:
1. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can develop a tailored exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the calf, improve flexibility, and enhance overall function. This can help alleviate pain and prevent further injury.

2. Manual Therapy: Techniques such as massage or mobilization may be employed to reduce pain and improve circulation in the affected area.

3. Pain Management: If your pain is significant, the rehabilitation specialist may work with you to develop a pain management plan. This could include modalities such as ultrasound therapy, electrical stimulation, or other interventions aimed at reducing pain and inflammation.

4. Education and Activity Modification: Understanding how to modify your activities to avoid exacerbating your symptoms is crucial. A rehabilitation specialist can provide guidance on how to engage in daily activities safely.

5. Gradual Return to Activity: If you are an athlete or engage in regular physical activity, a rehabilitation specialist can help you gradually return to your previous level of activity while minimizing the risk of re-injury.

It is important to address these symptoms sooner rather than later, as chronic pain can lead to compensatory movement patterns, which may result in further complications or injuries in other areas of the body. Additionally, if there is an underlying structural issue, early intervention can prevent further deterioration.

In summary, seeing a rehabilitation specialist is a prudent step in managing your persistent calf pain and indentation. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you regain function and reduce pain. Don't hesitate to seek help; addressing these issues early can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

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