What to Do If You Fall and Experience Ongoing Arm Pain

Recently, you fell onto your arm, and you're still feeling pain in the affected area. You might be wondering whether you should be concerned about the injury and what steps you should take to ensure proper recovery. This article will guide you through the necessary actions and advice from medical professionals to help you manage your situation effectively.

Initial Steps After a Fall

Following a fall, the immediate response should be to use the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation). If you haven't already, applying ice to your injured arm for 20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Additionally, if you can, tape your injured arm to another one to help stabilize it and prevent further injury.

Seeking Medical Attention

While initial steps can provide relief, it's crucial to seek proper medical attention. Here are some reasons why:

Age Considerations: Age can significantly influence how quickly and effectively an injury heals. Children and older adults may recover more slowly or differently than younger individuals, making medical evaluation critical. Potential Fractures: Even if you didn't remember an acute pain at the moment of the fall, an X-ray can rule out any hidden fractures. Waiting too long can complicate treatment and recovery. Proper Diagnosis and Treatment: An orthopedic specialist or hand surgeon should conduct a thorough examination to determine the extent of the injury and provide appropriate treatment.

Consulting Healthcare Professionals

Based on the advice from various healthcare professionals, here's what you should do next:

Visit the Doctor: Schedule an appointment with a doctor or, if necessary, go to the hospital. This step is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Get an X-ray: An X-ray can help rule out fractures, especially if the pain persists. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and ensure timely treatment. Consider Physiotherapy: If no fractures are found, a physiotherapist can assess the extent of the injury and recommend exercises to aid recovery. Muscle and ligament injuries can take time to heal, and appropriate rehabilitation is essential.

Addressing Concerns and Costs

Depending on your location, the cost of medical attention can vary. Here are some points to consider:

Insurance Coverage in the US: If you reside in the United States and don't have insurance, seeking medical care can be financially burdensome. However, if you have insurance, you may face co-pays or other costs, but coverage for emergency and urgent care typically exists. Other Developed Nations: In most other developed countries, healthcare is more accessible and covered by public or private insurance systems, making medical attention more manageable financially.

Further Guidance

If you've been experiencing pain in your hand for two weeks since the initial injury and it wasn't initially checked with an X-ray, it's important to get a second opinion. The pain may be due to deep bruising, which can resolve with time, but a thorough examination can ensure that no further complications arise.

In conclusion, if you've fallen and experienced ongoing pain, it's essential to seek professional medical attention. Early intervention can prevent further injury and ensure a faster recovery. Whether you're in the US or another developed country, medical care is a critical step in addressing your injury effectively.