Without proper diagnosis and treatment, minor symptoms may worsen. In the event of an injury, go to your nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E) department, where your injury will be assessed and you might be referred to a specialist for further diagnosis and treatment.
Here are 4 types of accident symptoms you should take seriously.
Pain and swelling in the knee
It may be a torn ligament or injured cartilage in the knee if there is:
- Sudden pain
- A loud snap
- Swelling
In the long run, it may lead to:
- Persistent swelling
- Instability
- Permanent cartilage damage
- Degenerative joint disease
Lower back pain
It may be a slipped disk if there is:
- Pain in your lower back
- Pain, numbness or weakness down your legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
In the long run, it may lead to:
- Poor posture
- Regular muscle spasms
- Permanent nerve damage
Twisted ankle
Ligaments in the ankle may be stretched or torn, and surrounding tendons, cartilage and blood vessels may be damaged. Symptoms include
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tenderness
- Stiffness
- Pain
In the long run, it may lead to:
- A permanently unstable ankle
- A limp
- Permanent cartilage damage
Shoulder pain
It may be a torn tendon caused by a fall, repetitive arm motions or lifting heavy objects. Symptoms include:
- Pain when lifting the arm
- Clicking or popping sound when moving the shoulder
- In the long run:
- Chronic pain
- Inflammation and stiffness in the joint
What should I do if I suspect an injury?
Go to the A&E department. Your injury may be assessed with:
- A clinical examination
- X-ray
- MRI scan
Common treatment options include:
- Medications
- Heat and ice therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Injections
- Splints or braces
- Keyhole surgery in serious cases
Article reviewed by
Dr Andrew Dutton, orthopaedic specialist at Mount Elizabeth Hospital
Dr Steve Tan, head of A&E department at Parkway Hospitals, Singapore
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