Two days ago I fell pretty hard (shoved by a patient) at work and bruised my left shin. Because it happened at work I was sent to the local hospital. Dr. in ER poked and prodded here and there and did not feel an x-ray was necessary. There is an abrasion (which is numb to the touch) and black area about 6-7 in. in diameter. Today I noticed my inner ankle is swelling and turning black. It also is slightly painful to walk; nothing excruciating but I know its there. My outer ankle bone/muscle is sore. Is this normal, or perhaps they missed something by not doing and x-ray?

Dr. Joshua’s Answer:

It’s difficult to exclude a fracture without an x-ray. Judging by your description, you may or may not have a fracture and I would personally prefer to order an x-ray to be sure, but I’m really not in a position to second guess your own doctor. My recommendation is to talk to your doctor - either your primary care physician or the ER doctor - and express your concerns, and see if they want to do further examinations.

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