Seeking Advice on Elbow X-rays from a Disabled Veteran
I’m a 33-year-old veteran dealing with psoriatic arthritis. Recently, while attempting to remove my jacket as I got into my car, I awkwardly moved my arm and felt a pop in my elbow. Following this, my elbow began to swell, prompting me to visit the VA hospital for an examination. While there, the medical team mentioned that they would consult with a specialist regarding my condition. They expressed that my elbow might be fractured and provided me with an ace bandage for support. Currently, I'm left waiting for the VA to schedule my next appointment, which feels like a distant hope since I have experienced extensive delays—up to six months—for similar consultations in the past. I plan to share my X-rays in the comments section and would greatly appreciate any opinions on whether I should consider paying out of pocket for a reputable orthopedist in my area or if it would be acceptable to wait for the VA to proceed. Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
4/4/2025, 12:50:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re in a challenging situation with your elbow injury and the potential delays in obtaining care through the VA. It’s essential to prioritize your health and ensure that your elbow is properly assessed and treated. Here’s a structured approach to consider:
Main Points
- Immediate Concern: Your elbow may be fractured and requires timely evaluation.
- Long-term Consideration: Weigh the risks and benefits of waiting for the VA versus seeking private care.
Explanation
A pop in the elbow followed by swelling can indicate a fracture or a more serious ligament injury, especially with your history of psoriatic arthritis. Delays in getting care can lead to complications, especially if a fracture requires intervention. An X-ray alone may not always provide the complete picture; a comprehensive assessment by an orthopedic specialist may be necessary.
Next Steps
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Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close track of your symptoms. If the swelling increases significantly, or if you experience severe pain, instability in the elbow, or difficulty using the arm, it may require urgent attention.
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Consider Seeking Private Care:
- If you have the means and access to a reputable orthopedist, consider scheduling an appointment. Doing so could provide quicker insights into your condition and appropriate management.
- Obtain a copy of your recent X-rays to share with the new doctor, which can help avoid repeat imaging.
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Follow-Up with the VA:
- Contact the VA to inquire about your referral status continually. Express any urgency due to your symptoms to potentially expedite the process.
- Additionally, ask if they can provide interim recommendations for managing pain and swelling while you wait.
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Self-Care While You Wait:
- Rest your elbow and avoid movements that worsen the pain.
- Apply ice intermittently (15-20 minutes every hour) to reduce swelling.
- Elevate your elbow whenever possible.
Deciding whether to pay out of pocket or wait for VA services is a personal choice, but don't hesitate to prioritize your health based on how your symptoms evolve. Feel free to share your X-rays when you're ready, and I'll do my best to provide insight on them. Please take care!
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