19 Mar Contusions
Contusions are some of the most common types of injuries that affect professional and recreational athletes as well as other less-active individuals. Commonly known as bruising, a contusion occurs when a muscle sustains a direct blow or blunt-force trauma and is crushed or compressed. Even though skin may not be broken, bleeding and swelling can still occur beneath the skin’s surface and result in the formation of a bruise. If you have suffered a severe contusion, you can visit a doctor who specializes in sports medicine near you for treatment.
Problems Associated with Contusions
Along with causing pain and discoloration of the skin, other problems may result from contusions that should be treated by a sports medicine doctor. Your body may be stiff and difficult to move from the trauma. A raised lump with pooled blood beneath the surface (hematoma) may also warrant treatment from a doctor. If you experience any faintness, nausea, vomiting or unconsciousness with a contusion, your body may be in shock, and it’s important that you seek emergency medical care right away.
Treatment
Bruising usually subsides on its own within a few days, but there are some ways that you can try to speed the healing process. By protecting, resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected area, you can prevent further damage and recover faster. Ibuprofen and other over-the-counter medications that are used frequently in sports injury treatment can also be taken to further reduce pain and swelling.
If a more severe contusion requires sports injury therapy from a doctor, there are several treatment methods that may provide relief. With the use of chiropractic care, many other problems that are associated with contusions can be treated. Physical therapy is another branch of sports medicine that is designed to help the body heal by using certain stretches and exercises. Even massage therapy in El Segundo may bring you some relief.
Just about everyone gets a contusion at some point in their life, and you can always visit a doctor who practices sports medicine near you if you need treatment. Seeing a medical professional who specializes in physical therapy, chiropractic care and massage therapy in El Segundo is advisable if your bruising is severe.