4 Types of Aches and Pains Not to Ignore | Health Plus

Without proper diagnosis and treatment, minor symptoms may worsen. In the event of an injury, go to your nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E) department, where your injury will be assessed and you might be referred to a specialist for further diagnosis and treatment.

Here are 4 types of accident symptoms you should take seriously.

Pain and swelling in the knee

It may be a torn ligament or injured cartilage in the knee if there is:

• Sudden pain
• A loud snap
• Swelling 

In the long run, it may lead to:

• Persistent swelling
• Instability
• Permanent cartilage damage
• Degenerative joint disease

Lower back pain

It may be a slipped disk if there is:

• Pain in your lower back
• Pain, numbness or weakness down your legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

In the long run, it may lead to:

• Poor posture
• Regular muscle spasms
• Permanent nerve damage

Twisted ankle

Ligaments in the ankle may be stretched or torn, and surrounding tendons, cartilage and blood vessels may be damaged. Symptoms include

• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Stiffness
• Pain

In the long run, it may lead to:

• A permanently unstable ankle
• A limp
• Permanent cartilage damage

Shoulder pain

It may be a torn tendon caused by a fall, repetitive arm motions or lifting heavy objects. Symptoms include:

• Pain when lifting the arm
• Clicking or popping sound when moving the shoulder
• In the long run:
• Chronic pain
• Inflammation and stiffness in the joint

What should I do if I suspect an injury?

Go to the A&E department. Your injury may be assessed with:

• A clinical examination
• X-ray
• MRI scan

Common treatment options include:

• Medications
• Heat and ice therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Injections
• Splints or braces
• Keyhole surgery in serious cases

 

Article reviewed by

Dr Andrew Dutton, orthopaedic specialist at Mount Elizabeth Hospital
Dr Steve Tan, head of A&E department at Parkway Hospitals, Singapore

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