What causes pain and swelling on ankle after hitting on a metal?
Patient: When walking I hit upper outside of knee on a metal part of a trailer. It hurt really bad when it happened and was sensitive, it has continuously hurt more but I can walk on it as long as I don t bend it. If I bend it, it takes my breath away and hurts. It is swelling, not hugely but a noticeable amount. I m wondering if it s possible to have fractured or hurt something more than just I thermal bruising. It s been less than 24 hours, but hurts more as time goes on. Should I go to the doctor or just rest it? Thanks!! Doctor: Hi,Thanks  for  your query.An initial xray of the injured part is mandatory to rule out any bony injury (fracture). If the xray is negative for a fracture, then the other possibility is soft tissue injury either to the ligaments, tendons etc.The initial management for your condition is as follows -- Give adequate rest to the injured part and avoid any movements that produces pain- Apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the day- Compress or bandage the injured area to limit any swelling and movement that could damage it further. You can use a crepe bandage or a simple elastic bandage - Keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce swelling. If your leg is injured, avoid having long periods of time where your leg is not raised.I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query.Take care