Are X-rays Required For Swollen And Tender Legs After Minor Accident?

Posted on Tue, 12 Sep 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 Answered on

Thu, 5 Oct 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Today I had a large piece of lumber bounce when o dropped it and it came back and landed on the top of my foot. There is some swelling and general pain when it's at rest. I can walk fine but it's extremely sensetive to touch. I can curl my toes but have pain and difficulty spreading my toes or bending them toward me. Should I go get it X-rays?

Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Hot compress should provide relief. If not, get an X ray done.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

I have gone carefully through your query. The sensitivity that you are reporting could be due to muscle spasm. Hot compress should provide relief. The vicious cycle of pain and spasm needs to be broken and I would insist you to take paracetamol or acetaminophen 500 mg two tablets together twice or thrice daily for next 3 days. This should ease the problem and make it go away. If it does not, I would insist you to get a X Ray of Lumbosacral spine (AP and lateral) done and to see a physical therapist with the reports. Based on the findings he would be able to demonstrate to you proper exercises that should provide relief.

Feel free to write back.

Regards

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana