Treating bruises correctly
Cooling, bandaging, elevating
Available, delivery time: 1-3 days
Available, delivery time: 1-3 days
Available, delivery time: 1-3 days
Available, delivery time: 1-3 days
Bruises - blunt injuries in sport or everyday life
A contusion, also known as a bruise, is a blunt injury that can be caused by a blow, impact, collision or fall . This results in bruising of the tissue at the bruised site. If blood vessels are injured, blood collects in the tissue, which can cause a visible, bluish to black discolouration to form under the skin - a haematoma.
How do I treat a bruise correctly - with heat or cold?
Quick action is crucial in the event of a bruise. If you react correctly in the first 15 minutes, you can prevent the tissue damage from spreading further. The P.E.C.H. rule serves as a good guide here.
Rest: The injured person should immediately take pressure off the affected body part and sit or lie down.
Ice: Cool the injury with a cooling pad for about 15-20 minutes to relieve pain and prevent further haemorrhaging. A cooling spray also has a pain-relieving effect and is easy to apply.
Compression: Stabilise the affected area with a light compression bandage to prevent swelling.
Elevation: Reduces blood flow to the injured part of the body. A bruise - especially if swelling and haematoma develop - should be treated with cold. Treatment with heat can dilate the blood vessels and stimulate blood flow - swelling, bruising and pain can be aggravated as a result.
Muscle hardening as a result of a bruise can be treated with heat a few days after the accident if necessary.
How long does a bruise last?
Typically, a bruise on muscles, joints or bones and the associated swelling and bruising can last for several days. In the case of severe bruises, complete healing takes longer and can take several weeks.
Is exercise good for a bruise?
Depending on the injured body part, mobility may be restricted. You should therefore refrain from sporting activities for around a week - the exact period must be determined individually. Once the swelling has subsided and the pain has eased, the affected joint can gradually be used again.
What happens if a bruise is not treated?
Ignoring the pain and continuing to put pressure on the affected area can delay the healing process and even worsen the symptoms.
What is the difference between a contusion and a sprain?
A sprain is due to overstretching, not a contusion. The ankle joint is frequently affected. This can result in an injury to the ligament or the joint capsule.