Contusions (Bruises) By: Charissa Vannatter

What is a bruise ? A bruise is an area of skin discoloration. A bruise occurs when small blood vessels break and leak their contents into the soft tissue beneath the skin.

3 Types Of Bruises 1. SUBCUTANEOUS 2. INTRAMUSCULAR 3. PERIOSTEAL

* SUBCUTANEOUS * This contusion is just beneath the skin. This type of contusion is most common. Usually caused by a fall or sudden blow.

* Intramuscular * This type of contusion is deep within the underlying muscle tissue. Very common in sports and automobile accidents.

* Periosteal * This type of contusion is a bone bruise. Periosteal liberally pertains to around the bone. Very common in sports and in elderly.

* Common Causes * Bruises are often caused by falls, sports injuries, car accidents, or direct blows received by other people or objects.

* Symptoms * The main symptoms are pain, swelling, and skin discoloration. The bruise is usually very tender to touch and is also difficult to move the affected area. For example - a deep thigh bruise is painful to ambulate.

The stages of bruising Bruises go through colorful stages as the body begins to heal itself. The color change mean that your is metabolizing, or breaking down, the blood cells in the skin. This is the chemical process that your body goes through to repair itself.

Stages cont. First stage- the color will be reddish or purplish. This is in the first days. Second stage- the bruise will appear blue or even blackish. This will take a few days. Stage three- it may appear greenish or yellowish. This will be in about five to ten days. Stage four- the bruise will be light brown and will get lighter and eventually fade completely. This is will be in about ten to fourteen days.

First Aid Place ice on the bruise to help it heal faster and to reduce swelling. Place ice in a cloth – do not place directly on the skin. Apply ice up to 15 minutes at a time. Keep the bruised area elevated if possible. Try to rest the bruised body part by not overworking your muscles in that area. If needed take tylenol to help reduce pain.

Prevention Practice safety skills. Be mindful to avoid falls. For example, be careful when climbing on ladders or other objects. Wear seatbelts in motor vehicles. Wear proper sports gear to pad easily bruised areas of the body.