Should you have your leg X-rayed if it hurts to put pressure on after an accident?

Yes, it is advisable to have an X-ray of your leg if it hurts to put pressure on after an accident. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Ruling Out Fractures: An X-ray can help determine if there are any fractures or breaks in your leg bones. Fractures can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the affected leg. By identifying a fracture, an X-ray can guide appropriate treatment, including immobilization or surgical intervention.

2. Assessing Ligament or Tendon Damage: While an X-ray primarily shows bones, it can also reveal indirect signs of ligament or tendon damage. If your leg hurts to put pressure on, there might be an injury to the ligaments or tendons that support the joint or the bones in your leg. X-rays can help identify these soft tissue injuries to some extent.

3. Excluding Other Causes: An X-ray can help exclude other potential causes of leg pain, such as bone infections, tumors, or joint problems. By identifying the underlying cause, an accurate diagnosis can be made, and appropriate treatment can be provided.

4. Monitoring Healing Progress: If you sustain a leg injury and undergo treatment, such as immobilization or surgery, an X-ray can be used to monitor the healing process. Repeat X-rays can show how your leg is healing and help your doctor make informed decisions regarding further treatment or rehabilitation.

It's important to remember that X-rays are just one diagnostic tool, and other imaging tests or physical examinations may be necessary for a comprehensive evaluation. If you have concerns about pain in your leg after an accident, it's essential to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and management.