Long-Term Effects of Arm Trauma After a Truck Accident

The left hand was once run over by a truck?

Hello, Dr.
Lan.
Four years ago, I was involved in a car accident where a truck, which was going to repair the road, ran over my left hand.
Although it wasn't broken, my arm swelled up to the size of my thigh, and I was discharged from Taichung Chung Shan Medical University at midnight the same day.
After six months of rehabilitation, I regained about 80% of the original range of motion in my arm.
However, whenever I use my left hand to talk on the phone or lift heavy objects, I experience numbness or discomfort.
Since it doesn't significantly affect my daily life, I haven't sought further follow-up.

Now that I am graduating from university and will be enlisting in the military, I mentioned this issue during my medical examination.
The doctor said he couldn't help me with that part.
I do not want to evade military service, but if I cannot apply for alternative service, my left hand will struggle to perform many push-ups naturally.
Could you please advise me on which specialty I should consult? What could be the underlying cause of this issue? Thank you.

Jiong Ge, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/03/14

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology

Dear Jiung, the sensation of abnormality is indeed a symptom that is more difficult to diagnose, and there are no specific criteria that fit.
No wonder you feel perplexed.
Currently, your issue may require an evaluation by an orthopedic physician to assess the function of your joints and muscles, rather than a neurologist.
Thank you, Lan Shengxing.

Reply Date: 2012/03/14

More Info

I'm sorry to hear about your experience with the truck accident and the ongoing issues with your left arm. It's understandable that you're concerned about the long-term effects of your injury, especially as you prepare for military service.
Based on your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing a combination of residual effects from the trauma, possibly including nerve damage, muscle weakness, or joint stiffness. The swelling you experienced immediately after the accident and the subsequent difficulty in regaining full range of motion are common in cases of significant trauma, even when fractures are not present.
The symptoms of numbness or discomfort when using your left arm, particularly when lifting or holding objects, could indicate that there is some level of nerve involvement. This might be due to compression or irritation of the nerves in the arm, which can occur after trauma. Additionally, the muscles and tendons may not have fully healed or may have developed scar tissue, which can lead to stiffness and discomfort during certain movements.

Given your situation, I recommend that you seek an evaluation from a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R), also known as a physiatrist. They can assess your arm's function, strength, and range of motion, and they may suggest a tailored rehabilitation program to help improve your symptoms. They can also evaluate for any potential nerve damage and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, or even nerve conduction studies if necessary.

In terms of your upcoming military service, it's important to communicate your concerns with the medical staff during your physical examination. They may be able to provide accommodations or modifications based on your condition. If you feel that your arm's functionality is significantly impaired, it may be worth discussing the possibility of alternative service options.

In summary, the long-term effects of trauma to the arm can vary widely depending on the nature of the injury and the healing process. While some individuals may recover fully, others may experience ongoing symptoms that require management. Seeking a comprehensive evaluation from a specialist will be crucial in determining the best course of action for your arm and ensuring that you are prepared for your military service. Don't hesitate to advocate for your health and well-being as you navigate this process.

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