Hello Dr. Grief.
My name is Erin, and I am a 31 year old female. On Saturday, February 8th (10 days ago), a 2x10x8 pressure treated lumber fell from about 12 feet and hit my lower leg, approximately 2 inches about my outside ankle joint. A large lump instantly began (a hematoma, I assume), and the bruise took form starting the next day. At the peak of the physical signs, approximately 4-5 days later, the bruise was black and blue in the size of about a baseball. The bruising had also spread down (in a purplish color) to my ankle and the top of my foot. Now, 10 days after the blunt hit, the bruise is disipating, now purple and yellow, but the lump is still very prominent, and there is some slight swelling reaching down to my outside ankle joint and over to the top of my foot. I do have some tenderness in the area, but have not at all had an issue walking or rotating my ankle. My concern is whether or not I should go to a doctor to have an examination, perhaps x-rays for any signs of fracture. Could you please help me? I also have photos if needed. Thank you very much for your time!