What Specialist Should My Mother See After a Minor Motorcycle Accident?

Which specialty should I see?

I would like to ask about a recent incident where my mother had a minor collision while riding a motorcycle and a car, causing her to fall to the left side.
It has been two to three weeks since the accident.
My mother experiences weakness in her left hand when she raises it while holding her phone, and her left leg becomes weak after walking a few steps (the left side, particularly around the hip joint, is painful).
I'm unsure which specialist to consult.
On the day of the accident, she went to the emergency room for an examination, and the doctor said there were no broken bones.
Why is my mother experiencing these symptoms? Which specialist should she see? My mother is currently 55 years old.

Xiao Zi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/13

Dr. Lin Jiafang reply Family Medicine

Hello, it is recommended that you visit the hospital for further examination.
The pain from the day of the accident may not present immediately, so please consider seeing an orthopedic or surgical outpatient clinic for further evaluation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2015/12/13

More Info

After a minor motorcycle accident, it is crucial to ensure that your mother receives appropriate medical attention, especially given her symptoms of weakness in her left arm and leg. Based on the details you provided, it seems that she may be experiencing residual effects from the accident, which could include soft tissue injuries, nerve damage, or even issues related to her joints or muscles.

Given her current symptoms, the first specialist you should consider consulting is a neurologist. Neurologists specialize in disorders of the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Since your mother is experiencing weakness and pain on one side of her body, a neurologist can help determine if there is any nerve damage or neurological condition that needs to be addressed.

Additionally, it may also be beneficial for her to see an orthopedic specialist. Orthopedic doctors focus on the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Even though the initial emergency examination indicated that there were no fractures, there could still be underlying issues such as sprains, strains, or other injuries that may not have been immediately apparent.

If your mother is experiencing significant pain in her left shoulder or hip, a physiatrist (rehabilitation physician) could also be an excellent choice. Physiatrists specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation, focusing on restoring function and improving quality of life for patients with physical impairments. They can develop a comprehensive rehabilitation plan that may include physical therapy, pain management, and other supportive treatments.

In addition to these specialists, it may be helpful for your mother to undergo physical therapy. A physical therapist can assess her strength, flexibility, and range of motion, and create a tailored exercise program to help her regain strength and mobility in her affected limbs. They can also provide guidance on safe movements and exercises to avoid exacerbating her condition.

Regarding the symptoms your mother is experiencing, it is not uncommon for individuals to have lingering effects after an accident, even if there are no visible injuries. The body can react to trauma in various ways, and sometimes the pain and weakness can be attributed to muscle strain, inflammation, or even psychological factors such as anxiety or stress following the accident.

It's essential to monitor her symptoms closely. If she experiences worsening pain, increased weakness, or any new symptoms such as numbness or tingling, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and prevent long-term complications.

In summary, I recommend that your mother sees a neurologist and an orthopedic specialist to evaluate her symptoms further. A referral to a physiatrist for rehabilitation may also be beneficial. Ensuring that she receives a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment will be key to her recovery and regaining her strength and mobility.

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