How to Heal Bone Bruises

Bone bruises damage muscle and tissue without breaking the skin.

Bone bruises, also known as contusions, are the result of direct or repeated blows from an object or person. This type of injury may be caused by falls, automobile accidents, sports injuries or slamming the body against a hard surface. The result is a swollen lump that forms over the injured site due to bleeding beneath the skin. Other symptoms include pain, stiff muscles and limited range of motion. Treatment involves the RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) method along with pain medications.

Things You'll Need

• Ice pack
• Towel
• Compression bandage
• Pillow
• Over-the-counter pain medication

Instructions

1. Rest the bruised area by discontinuing activities that would cause further pain or injury. Continuing to exert pressure against the injury can delay healing.

2. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a clean towel to the bruised area to reduce swelling. Leave the ice pack on for 20 minutes; apply two to three times a day.

3. Wrap the bruised area with a compression bandage to restrict movement and promote healing.

4. Elevate the injury by applying a pillow under the affected area. Raise it to a level above the heart to relieve swelling and inflammation.

5. Use over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or Aleve, to reduce pain, muscle stiffness and inflammation.

Tips & Warnings

• See a physician for a complete diagnosis or if symptoms worsen. The physician will determine the extent of the injury with an MRI or CT scan. After the swelling has decreased, the physician may prescribe gentle stretching exercises to restore range of motion or a customized protective device to prevent further injury.

• Without proper treatment, complications known as compartment syndrome or myositis ossificans may occur. Compartment syndrome involves fluid build up following bruising and bleeding and is surgical treated by draining fluids to prevent blood flow blockage. Myositis ossificans is damaged muscle tissue that grows bone. It occurs in athletes who try to heal their injuries too quickly.

References

• MedlinePlus: Bone Bruise
• Mayo Clinic; Heel Pain - Causes; 2010
• Cleveland Cavaliers; Training Time with Max Benton - Bone Bruises; Max Benton
• MedicineNet; Naproxen; Omudhome Ogbru, Pharm.D.
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Muscle Contusion - Bruise