When walking I hit upper outside of knee on a metal part of a trailer. It hurt really bad when it happened and was sensitive, it has continuously hurt more but I can walk on it as long as I don t bend it. If I bend it, it takes my breath away and hurts. It is swelling, not hugely but a noticeable amount. I m wondering if it s possible to have fractured or hurt something more than just I thermal bruising. It s been less than 24 hours, but hurts more as time goes on. Should I go to the doctor or just rest it? Thanks!!
Hi, Thanks for your query. An initial X-ray of the injured part is mandatory to rule out any bony injury (fracture). If the X-ray is negative for a fracture, then the other possibility is soft tissue injury either to the ligaments, tendons etc. The initial management for your condition is as follows -- Give adequate rest to the injured part and avoid any movements that produce pain-Apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the day-Compress or bandage the injured area to limit any swelling and movement that could damage it further. You can use a cr\u00eape bandage or a simple elastic bandage - Keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce swelling. If your leg is injured, avoid having long periods of time when your leg is not raised. I do hope that you have found something helpful, and I will be glad to answer any further query. Take care