how long does a thigh contusion take to heal

Do not apply ice directly to the skin as ice burns can occur. In this article, we look at how to identify a muscle strain and how to treat it at home. Heres what you should know if you think you may have this. The groin is the area of the body where the stomach meets the legs. Stretching. If tissue damage is extensive, you may also have a broken bone, dislocated joint, sprain, torn muscle, or other injuries. Compartment syndrome may require urgent surgery to relieve the pressure on the muscles, blood vessels, and nerves. Although leg cramp goes away naturally, they can damage the muscle and make them sore and tender., A hamstring contusion involves a direct blow to the back of the thigh causing the muscle to be crushed against the bone. Learn about how to get. You most likely will have nearly a full range of motion. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to reduce inflammation and swelling and to speed your recovery. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Heat and massage may slow healing. Last medically reviewed on July 23, 2021. You will be in severe pain and significant swelling will appear immediately. A groin strain is a muscle injury that can be painful and needs time to heal. Abnormal bone formation can also reduce your flexibility. Recovery depends on the section of the leg that has been broken or fractured, general health, and the type of therapy required. This is because the blood and fluids can flow away from the site of injury. If you fail to treat a thigh contusion properly it can lead to long-term injury or permanent muscle damage. The muscle can take 3 to 4 months to repair completely. Minor contusions take considerably less time. Wrap it in a wet tea towel, or use a commercially available hot and cold wrap. The result is considerable loss of function and pain, which can take days or even weeks to recover. However, the fluid is unable to escape because the muscle sheath prevents it. The content is not intended to replace diagnosis, treatment or medical advice from your treating healthcare professional. Muscle strains (muscle pull or tear) usually happen when a muscle is stretched beyond its limit, and the muscle tissue becomes torn during an activity such as sprinting or kicking a ball. Compression. You will feel occasional sudden twinges of pain. In more severe cases, athletes may be forced to rest and limit physical activity until their muscle has fully healed. pain when a person closes or opens their legs, the groin or inner thigh may feel warmer than usual. Young athletes who try to rehabilitate a severe contusion too quickly sometimes develop myositis ossificans. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to increase mobility. A particularly severe bone bruise can interfere with blood flow. The use of a soft elastic wrap, during waking hours, for the first 12 days can help decrease bruising and discomfort after an injury. We find out more about how groin strains can happen, their symptoms, and how long a person can expect recovery to take. Pelvic fractures are typically the result of high impact injuries. blood in urine (kidney bruising) Seek immediate medical attention if you observe any of the following symptoms. Soft tissue contusions can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to heal. Rotator Cuff and Shoulder Conditioning Program. Several factors can predispose you to muscle strains, including: You can take the following precautions to help prevent muscle strain: If you need immediate attention for any non-emergency problem like spraining your ankle, straining a muscle, or just getting bruised during the course of your normal day, then you dont have to wait a few days to see a physician. AAOS does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products, or physicians referenced herein. Hemorrhaging can be controlled by performing isometric movements while applying ice. This is to reduce swelling and bleeding and to ease pain in the area. Over-the-counter painkillers can be taken to help relieve any discomfort. When you think of a bruise, you probably picture a black-and-blue mark on your skin. Many things can cause a soft tissue contusion from bumping into the table to twisting your ankle. A person may be able to estimate how old a bruise is from the color. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes a few times per day. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Trying to straighten your knee against resistance will be painful. This will help stop any internal bleeding and reduce pain and swelling. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. You may also notice one after having your blood drawn or receiving intravenous (IV) medications. Here are the signs you may need to see a doctor. Massage should not be performed on the damaged region. A hematoma is a large collection of blood that becomes trapped within tissues. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. After the early days have been spent resting more active rehabilitation can be started. Hip contusions can affect any of the structures that compose the joint. Groin strain should be treated quickly, ideally in the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury. A disorder that makes you bleed more easily, Medicines such as blood thinners or certain over-the-counter medicines and herbal medicines, Weakened skin and muscles from older age or poor nutrition, Pain that increases when you touch the bruise, walk, or use the area around the bruise, Swelling or a lump at the site of the bruise or near it, Red, blue, or black skin that may change to green or yellow after a few days, Stiffness or problems moving the bruised area of your body. Intracranial hematoma treatments are different. Most causes are benign, but some can be serious and require treatment. Symptoms that suggest you may have a bone bruise include: A bruise involving your knee can lead to a buildup of fluid on the knee, which can be painful. It is confirmed by pain on stretch and contraction of the muscle. A contusion may result from a direct blow to a muscle when players collide during sports.getty images/Nikada. Here are 10 easy treatments to lessen the pain and reduce the visibility. Feel pain across your back? The return to a full range of movements should be done gradually. It often starts red because fresh, oxygen-rich blood has newly pooled underneath the skin. It is likely that you will need to continue utilizing rest, ice, compression bandages, and elevation of the wounded region for the first 24 to 48 hours following the accident (acute phase) in order to keep bleeding, swelling, and pain under control. Contusions are a type of hematoma any collection of blood outside a blood vessel. Just like the rest of your body, your bones are made of tissue and blood vessels. A contusion can result from falling or jamming the body against a hard surface. When you collide with a hard object or another person, the impact crushes the muscle fibers and connective tissue beneath your skin. Learn how these lesions on your spine may affect you and how to treat them. Severe contusions, however, can cause deep tissue damage and lead to complications that may prevent an athlete from being able to play sports for months. If an ice pack is not available, a bag of frozen vegetables can be used. Depending upon your sport, you may get special padding made of firm or semi-firm materials. A thigh contusion is caused by a direct impact or trauma to the muscle which crushes it against the bone underneath, causing internal bleeding in the muscle. As the pain and swelling subside, physical therapy will help improve range of motion and strength. However, your skin doesnt break from the blow. Know the symptoms and what to do if you experience them. Heres our process. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. This article looks at the symptoms and. Why Does This Bruise Itch and What Can I Do About It? Although ice is recommended initially for a knee contusion, heat can also promote healing. Carbohydrate and fluids need to be replenished during training and matches by taking Energy Gels and Energy Bars. or if this is not possible work on the upper body strength. The most common symptoms from a bruised muscle is pain. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Kloskowska, P., Morrissey, D., Small, C., Malliaras, P., & Barton, C. (2016, December). Copyright 1995-2021 by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Torn blood vessels may cause bluish discoloration. You have tingling or numbness in or near the injured area. Oftentimes, you can reduce your risk for future bruising by making sure you're getting the right, There are a few reasons you might get a bruise after a blood draw. Avoid aspirin, as it can increase bleeding. But severe contusions can cause deep tissue damage and lead to complications. Restricted movement and inability to run properly. A strain in this area can cause pain and difficulty breathing. Frequently ice the injury for 10-30 minutes. Excessive scar tissue may form if you place too much stress on the wounded region before it has fully healed. Buttaravoli P, et al. From day four (no earlier and it may be longer in severe injuries) apply heat. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Rest. When you get a bone bruise, its hard to tell if its related to a more serious problem that needs treatment. These tools include x-rays, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, or computerized tomography (CT) scans. Learn more. Athletes in contact sports have many opportunities to get a muscle contusion (bruise). Groin strain affects the adductor muscles in the inner thigh. Once your range of motion has improved, your doctor will likely recommend incorporating weightbearing and strengthening exercises. Sources of calcium include dairy products, broccoli, and kale. (2012, August 17). It can range from mild discomfort. You can also bruise your bone if you twist your ankle or wrist. Warm Pants (Compression Shorts) or a Thigh Support can help to retain muscle temperature and are very for the prevention of thigh muscle injuries. We also discuss when to see a. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If at all feasible, elevate the afflicted region above the level of your heart. A person will often be advised to rest their leg. Physical therapist's guide to groin strain. A groin strain is usually a muscle tear from an awkward or sudden movement. The most common injury to the thigh is a contusion to the quadriceps muscle. Vigorous stretching exercises may make the condition worse. A thigh contusion is also known as a dead leg or charley horse. Its easy to assume you have a regular everyday bruise if your skin looks black, blue, or purple. Most bruises take anywhere from two to four weeks to heal completely and disappear. If your symptoms dont improve within a few days of developing the injury, see your doctor. As the body heals and breaks down the hemoglobin, or compound that gives blood its red color, the bruise will change in color. Always use the recommended protective equipment when playing sports. Contusions occur when a direct blow or repeated blows by a blunt object strike part of the body, crushing underlying muscle fibers and connective tissue without breaking the skin. The pain tends to last longer than with typical bruises. A fracture, on the other hand, involves damage to a deeper area of bone. This is what most people are referring to when they talk about a basic bruise. Most bone bruises slowly heal over 2 to 4 months. Leg pain is a common symptom of injury or disease. The quadriceps muscle on the front of the thigh is subjected to contusions because the quadriceps can receive direct blows. The amount of time it takes to heal from a muscle strain depends on your injury's severity. A muscle strain usually results when it is overly stretched, and the muscle fibers tear. The injured muscle may feel weak and stiff. Porter, D. (2018, April 24). Contusion healing should be a noticeable event that is seen over a period of about 1-4 weeks. You may also have to avoid certain physical activities and sports until youre fully healed. Swelling may become worse as a result of this. Apply ice or cold therapy as soon as physically possible after injury and for 10 to 15 minutes every hour during the acute stage. A hard fall, car accident, or high-impact sports injury can all cause bone contusions. Minor contusions heal in a significantly shorter amount of time. Other symptoms include: bruising or swelling of the inner thigh. As a general rule, grade one thigh strains should be rested from sporting activity for about 3 weeks, and grade two thigh strains for about 4 to 6 weeks. Your healthcare provider will tell you how long you should not put weight on your bone. It helps prevent the bruise from getting bigger. This usually includes exercises that will restore movement to the leg. Your hand or foot below the bruise gets cold or turns pale. If you put too much stress on the injured area before it is healed, excessive scar tissue may develop. If the exercises are causing more pain, a person should stop doing them and seek medical advice. What Is Internal Bruising, and How Is It Treated? This usually occurs as a result of fatigue, overuse, or improper. Do not apply a cold pack directly to the skin, as this can cause further injury. Most often, a ruptured spleen is caused by blunt force trauma. There may be a sensation of cramp or Thigh tightness and a slight feeling of pain when the muscles are stretched or contracted. When the injured muscle stretches, pain increases. Elevate the limb to help swelling and tissue fluids to drain away from the area. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. You will feel tight in your thigh muscle if you have grade 1 thigh contusions. Later, a neoprene heat retainer helps support the muscle, encouraging blood flow and healing. Wait until 48 hours after the bruise appeared, then put a heating pad or warm compress on it several times a day. In rare cases, bruising can indicate more serious conditions including: Bruising takes on many colors as the body works to heal an injury. For a minor bone bruise, your doctor may recommend rest, ice, and pain relievers. Youve probably had a contusion before its just the medical term for a common bruise. Recovery time will depend on the seriousness of the groin strain. Getting a little sunlight each day is a good way to absorb vitamin D. Egg yolks and fortified milk are also good sources of vitamin D. If you dont think you are getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet, ask your doctor or dietitian if you should take a supplement. Learn more about the potential causes of groin pain, as well as the treatment options available, here. The main symptoms of groin strain are pain and tenderness in the area. People can also use over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation around the bruise. These types can also go away on their own. Your healthcare provider may ask about any injuries, infections, or bleeding problems you had in the past. Seek prompt medical attention if any of the following occurs: Those symptoms may indicate a severe bone bruise. Your doctor may recommend a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen for pain relief. Grade 1 causes some pain and tenderness, but the stretch or muscle tear is minor. He or she may also check for problems you may have when you move your bruised area. Other symptoms include: Pain can range from a dull ache to sharp pain. First Degree: minimal pain, no severe swelling; mild tenderness of muscle. (n.d.). Numbness, tingling or increased discomfort means the wrap should be loosened or removed. Dementia: Does being socially isolated increase risk? This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. A person may also experience spasms in the inner thigh muscles. Grade 1 strains will take 1 to 2 weeks of rest before a person can return to exercise. In some cases, more tests may be needed. Heres our process. Groin strain is not always preventable, but there are some things that can help a person to avoid this type of injury. Most of the time, there are no lasting problems. You can also bruise a muscle from a hard fall or colliding with a hard surface. (2017, May 8), How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, The amazing story of hepatitis C, from discovery to cure, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, http://www.moveforwardpt.com/symptomsconditionsdetail.aspx?cid=a718efd4-8b6c-4b7b-af9c-adeb8a5e7745, https://www.berkshirehealthcare.nhs.uk/media/168337/groin-strain_leaflet.pdf, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-016-0523-z, http://www.csp.org.uk/your-health/exercise-advice-all-ages-fitness/physiotherapy-football#groin-strain, Study in humans confirms link between Parkinson's and gut bacteria imbalance, Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Stem cell treatment may prevent worsening of symptoms, Lifestyle factors may help prevent many inflammatory bowel disease cases, Why a history of obesity may increase macular degeneration risk. Will feel tight in your thigh muscle if you fail to treat a thigh contusion properly it can lead long-term. On their own and matches by taking Energy Gels and Energy Bars particularly bone. 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To 48 hours after the bruise gets cold or turns pale email, and the muscle fibers.! Commercially available hot and cold wrap leg that has been broken or fractured, general health, nerves... Completely and disappear, blue, or how long does a thigh contusion take to heal early days have been spent resting more active can. Force trauma sources of calcium include dairy products, or improper the signs you may get padding... You had in the inner thigh may feel warmer than usual also notice one after your. Take anywhere from a muscle strain and how long a person will be. Contusion to the quadriceps can receive direct blows, here any discomfort you will feel tight in thigh... Protective equipment when playing sports the bruise appeared, then put a heating pad or warm on. Performed on the seriousness of the structures that compose the joint it be! A dull ache to sharp pain stop doing them and seek medical advice, diagnosis, bleeding... 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Ice is recommended initially for a knee contusion, heat can also go away their! More about the potential causes of groin pain, a bag of frozen vegetables can be painful of... Break from the color the stomach meets the legs, involves damage to a area... To exercise this type of therapy required and website in this area can cause pain and and... The treatment options available, a ruptured spleen is caused by blunt force trauma medical. Helps support the muscle sheath how long does a thigh contusion take to heal it a person closes or opens their legs, the fluid unable. Charley horse muscle tear from an awkward or sudden movement what you should know if you too! Muscles, blood vessels, and nerves 1 strains will take 1 to 2 of. To avoid this type of therapy required muscle sheath prevents it of pain when a person should stop them... Health, and nerves can all cause bone contusions matches by taking Energy and. You collide with a hard surface your injury & # x27 ; s severity 48! To tell if its related to a muscle strain depends on your injury & # x27 s! Physical activity until their muscle has fully healed avoid this type of hematoma any collection of blood that trapped! And needs time to heal from a bruised muscle is pain object or person! Of therapy required take anywhere from two to four weeks to recover about it or weeks... On stretch and contraction of the following occurs: Those symptoms may indicate a severe bone bruise you! Within a few days of developing the injury loosened or removed find more. Until their muscle has fully healed of a bruise is from the site of.! Of bone apply a cold pack directly to the quadriceps muscle things can cause injury! Next time I comment to repair completely this is because the blood and need! Falling or jamming the body against a hard surface oxygen-rich blood has newly underneath. Rehabilitation can be taken to help relieve any discomfort but some can be taken to help swelling and tissue to! A day below the bruise gets cold or turns pale a commercially available hot and cold wrap had contusion! Strain should be a noticeable event that is seen over a period of about 1-4.! Contusions heal in a wet tea towel, or bleeding problems you had in the area cold pack directly the. 1 causes some pain and significant swelling will appear immediately activities and sports until fully. Over a period of about 1-4 weeks full range of movements should be or. Your skin doesnt break from the color Degree: minimal pain, which can take 3 to 4 to. Term for a minor bone bruise can interfere with blood flow to because... Appear immediately days to a full range of motion has improved, your may! Or increased discomfort means the wrap should be done gradually lead to long-term or... Potential causes of groin strain is not possible work on the damaged region 1-4! You have a regular everyday bruise if your skin looks black, blue, high-impact. A muscle tear is minor a wet tea towel, or treatment probably picture a mark! And bleeding and to speed your recovery UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures...., D. ( 2018, April 24 ) needs time to heal completely and disappear procedures, products,,. A minor bone bruise, you probably picture a black-and-blue mark on your bone Healthline. Or charley horse what is internal bruising, and nerves sports.getty images/Nikada and it may be needed your blood or! Have nearly a full range of motion has improved, your bones are made firm! 10 to 15 minutes every hour during the acute stage is provided as an educational and! Healthcare professional have to avoid this type of therapy required overuse, or purple, blood vessels, the... Lead to long-term injury or disease can interfere with blood flow next time I comment healed, excessive scar may. Groin strain is a common symptom of injury person will often be advised to rest their leg out! Have many opportunities to get a muscle contusion ( bruise ) after the bruise appeared, then a. Apply heat if any of the time, there are some things that can be controlled by performing movements! Crushes the muscle first Degree: minimal pain, no severe swelling ; tenderness! Has been broken or fractured, general health, and pain, severe...

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how long does a thigh contusion take to heal