Your kidneys are two vital organs that keep you alive by filtering your blood of waste and excess toxins. These small organs are delicate yet they are protected within your body. However, there are times when you can bruise your kidney from a sports injury or car accident. The Merck Medical Foundation says your body may need time to recover from a bruised kidney and in most cases you will need to be seen by a doctor to be sure your kidneys are not permanently damaged.

Sleep for 10 hours each night. Bed rest is required for a bruised kidney. You need to sleep often and for long periods of time. Keep your body still and find a comfortable position. Take naps during the day and eat healthy foods that are rich in vitamins to promote healing. Raw fruits and vegetables are excellent options. You can also take omega-3 fatty acid supplements or cod liver oil to reduce inflammation in the body.

Take a hot bath. Fill the tub with hot water and Epsom salts. The heat will help you feel better and ease the pain.

Take ibuprofen or an anti-inflammatory drug prescribed by your doctor. Usually a bruised kidney does not require stronger pain medications unless the injury is severe or if you are dealing with other internal injuries as well.

Drink eight to 10 glasses of purified water each day. If you are suffering from a bruised kidney you may notice blood in your urine. Your kidneys need additional support during this time, so be sure to drink a lot of pure water each day. If you work out or spend time in the sun you may need even more water.

Place a heating pad or ice back on your bruised kidney. Some people prefer cold over hot so use either one depending on your individual preference. Lie down while doing this and try to relax.

Tip

Take additional vitamin C, D and A to help speed the healing process.

The most common signs of a bruised kidney are blood in the urine along with pain and swelling. Sometimes people with a bruised kidney will also feel nauseous as well.

Warning

If you are passing a lot blood you may need to hospitalized and monitored closely. The kidneys are delicate and you may need to avoid working or moving around too much so that your body can heal faster. Sometimes surgery is needed if the damage is severe.Car accidents can cause damage to the kidneys that can result in kidney failure if left untreated.