Description Trauma to the extre...
Description
Trauma to the extremity can cause a contusion (bruise), fracture, bleeding, a crush injury, or sprain. Underlying structures such as tendon, nerves, ligaments or blood vessels can also be damaged. A severe crush injury can result in a serious limb threatening injury called compartment syndrome.
Symptoms
Pain, swelling, discoloration, decreased motion, numbness, weakness, decreased pulse.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. X-rays will be taken to rule out fracture. CT scans can better delineate a fracture when X-rays are equivocal. A MRI may be needed to diagnose ligament injuries. The pressure within the soft tissues of an extremity can be directly measured by inserting a needle that is attached to a pressure gauge.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. X-rays will be taken to rule out fracture. CT scans can better delineate a fracture when X-rays are equivocal. A MRI may be needed to diagnose ligament injuries. The pressure within the soft tissues of an extremity can be directly measured by inserting a needle that is attached to a pressure gauge.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery
Treatment
Depends on the injury but may include: immobilization,ice, elevation, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), or pain medications acetaminophen (Tylenol). Surgery may be recommended for severe injuries such as compartment syndrome, certain fractures or uncontrolled bleeding.