Persistent Symptoms: Consult a healthcare provider if your joint pain and swelling do not improve after several days of practicing standard rest and at-home cold therapy 2.
Loss of Function: Seek immediate medical care if you experience a sudden inability to move the affected joint or bear any physical weight, which may indicate a ruptured tendon 32.
Visible Deformity: Go to a medical clinic if you notice a physical deformity or heard a distinctive snapping sound during the injury, signaling severe structural tissue damage 7.
Signs of Infection: Seek urgent treatment if the surrounding skin becomes exceedingly red or abnormally hot, or if you develop a fever, as these indicate a potential bacterial infection 33.
