FAQ: What Will The Orthopedist Do If My Contusion Swelling Doesn’t Go Down?

How long does contusion swelling last?

Most contusions simply require time to heal. Soft tissue contusions can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to heal. Bone contusions take a bit longer — usually one to two months — depending on how severe the injury is. As you recover, you can follow the RICE protocol to help manage your symptoms.

What does it mean when a bruise doesn’t go away?

Bruises aren’t usually serious, and they often clear up without treatment. If you have a bruise that doesn’t go away after 2 weeks, you bruise for no apparent reason, or you have additional symptoms, see your doctor for diagnosis. The sooner you get treatment, the sooner you’ll start feeling better.

Can a contusion cause swelling?

Contusions cause swelling and pain and can limit joint range of motion near the injury. Torn blood vessels may cause bluish discoloration. The injured muscle may feel weak and stiff.

What happens if hematoma doesnt go away?

If you have a hematoma over your shinbone, your doctor may recommend surgery. If you have a large hematoma that doesn’t go away for several days following your injury, your doctor might suggest that it be drained.

When should I be concerned about a contusion?

Call the doctor if bruising occurs easily or for no apparent reason. Call the doctor if the bruise is painful and under a toenail or fingernail. Call the doctor if a bruise does not improve within two weeks or fails to completely clear after three or four weeks.

How can I make my contusion heal faster?

The following treatments can be done at home:

1. Ice therapy. Apply ice immediately after the injury to reduce blood flow around the area.
2. Heat. You can apply heat to boost circulation and increase blood flow.
3. Compression. Wrap the bruised area in an elastic bandage.
4. Elevation.
5. Arnica.
6. Vitamin K cream.
7. Aloe vera.
8. Vitamin C.

Is it bad if a bruise doesn’t go away?

Most bruises only need treatment for a day or two before they start to feel better. Talk to your doctor if your bruise hasn’t healed within two weeks. Severe sprains and fractures can cause bruising, along with swelling and pain. In most cases, a bruise is a minor problem that will heal quickly.

Why do my bruises take so long to heal?

That’s because over time, the sun slowly weakens your skin and the tiny blood vessels underneath it. These bruises are a little different. They aren’t caused by bumping into something, they don’t usually feel tender when you touch them, and they take longer to heal.

What does a hematoma look like?

Hematomas can be seen under the skin or nails as purplish bruises of different sizes. Skin bruises can also be called contusions. Hematomas can also happen deep inside the body where they may not be visible. Hematomas may sometimes form a mass or lump that can be felt.

Can a contusion cause a blood clot?

The bruise itself won’t cause a blood clot. In very rare circumstances, the hit that caused the bruise can. If a deep-seated vein is damaged during the collision, it could lead to a deep-vein clot. This is called deep-vein thrombosis ( DVT ).

What does a contusion feel like?

Contusions cause swelling and pain, and limit joint range of motion near the injury. Torn blood vessels may cause bluish discoloration. The injured muscle may feel weak and stiff. Sometimes a pool of blood collects within damaged tissue, forming a lump over the injury ( hematoma ).

Can a contusion be serious?

Organ contusions damage the blood vessels and other soft tissue in organs. These injuries are dangerous, and they can be life-threatening. This is because they may interfere with the functioning of the organ. People with organ contusions may require hospitalization.

Can a hematoma take months to heal?

Mild hematomas and contusions typically heal within about five days. A large hematoma may last weeks to months and as it heals it will change color and slowly shrink in size. Hematoma pain and swelling may be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications.

Can a hematoma be permanent?

Hematomas will usually reabsorb into the body, like a bruise. However, depending on the size, location and cause of the hematoma, the area may need to be drained surgically, or take a longer period of time to resolve.

Does massaging a hematoma help?

Most haematomas get better quickly and remember to avoid massage to your injured area. Some may take longer to resolve and you might feel a raised lump for some time. After the first 48 hours and whilst you wait for it to heal, just keep gently exercising and stretching the area as long as you don’t cause pain.