Thigh Contusion

Bruising of skin and underlying tissues of the thigh (between knee and hip) due to a direct blow. Contusions cause bleeding from ruptured small capillaries that allow blood to infiltrate muscles, tendons or other soft tissue. The thigh is well-suited to absorb direct blows, but contusions do occur here.

Body Parts Involved

The thigh, including blood vessels, muscles, tendons, nerves, covering to bone (periosteum) and connective tissue.

Causes

Direct blow to the thigh, usually from a blunt object (frequently the edge of a thigh pad in football pants.)

Signs & Symptoms

• Swelling of the thigh-either superficial or deep.
• Pain and tenderness in the thigh.
• Feeling of firmness when pressure is exerted at the injury site.
• Discoloration under the skin, beginning with redness and progressing to the characteristic "black and blue" bruise.
• Restricted activity of the injured leg proportional to the extent of injury.

Treatment

Note:- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.

First Aid

Use instructions for R.I.C.E., the first letters of rest, ice, compression and elevation.

Continuing Care

• Wrap an elasticized bandage over a felt pad on the injured area. Keep the area compressed for about 72 hours.
• Use ice massage. Fill a large Styrofoam cup with water and freeze. Tear a small amount of foam from the top so ice protrudes. Massage gently over the injured area in a circle about the size of a softball. Do this for 15 minutes at a times, 3 or 4 times a day, and before workouts or competition.
• Massage gently and often to provide comfort and decrease swelling.

Medication

• For minor discomfort, you may use:
  Acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
  Topical liniments and ointments.
• Your doctor may prescribe stronger medicine for pain.

Home Diet

Eat a well-balanced diet that includes extra protein, such as meat, fish, poultry, cheese, milk and eggs. Your doctor may prescribe vitamin and mineral supplements to promote healing.

Diagnostic Measures

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor for all except minor injuries.
• X-rays of the thigh, knee and hip to assess total injury to soft tissue and to rule out the possibility of underlying fractures. The total extent of injury may not be apparent for 48 to 72 hours.

Prevention Tips

Wear appropriate protective gear and equipment, such as thigh pads, during competition or other athletic activity if there is risk of a thigh contusion. Keep thigh pads strapped in position.