How to Ice a Bruise

Icing a bruise helps to reduce swelling.

A bruise occurs when you bump into, or a bumped by, something and the soft tissue undergoes trauma. Small veins, or capillaries, right under the skin break leading red blood cells to escape and accumulate into those black and blue spots that we know as bruises. While some people may bruise more easily than others, there are several things that should be done to help the bruise heal.

Things You'll Need

• Chair
• Ice Pack

Instructions

How To Ice A Bruise

1. 

   Ice the bruise as soon as it happens.

   Fill a self-sealing plastic bag with ice cubs to make an ice pack. Alternatively, you can purchase a pre-made one.

2. Elevate the bruise by propping up the affected limb and apply the ice pack to the bruised area. Repeat several times a day for the first two days after the bruise is incurred.

3. If possible, rest the bruised limb or area. When the black and blue marks fade to yellow, the bruise is healing.

Tips & Warnings

• Acetaminophen or ibuprofin may assist in the reduction of swelling and pain relief; but you should always consult your doctor before taking any medication.

• If the ice pack is too cold to hold against your bare skin, try wrapping a dish towel or t-shirt around the pack.

• See your doctor if you develop unusually large or painful bruises, or experience bruising for no particular reason.

References

• Bruises: Causes, Treatments, Prevention
• Kids Health: What's A Bruise?