Knee Contusion

Bruising of the skin and underlying tissues of the knee due to a direct blow. Contusions cause bleeding from ruptured small capillaries that allow blood to infiltrate muscles, tendons or other soft tissue. The knee is highly vulnerable to contusions.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED

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

Causes

Direct blow to the front or side of the knee.

Signs & Symptoms

• Swelling-either superficial or deep.
• Pain and tenderness over the knee.
• Feeling of firmness when pressure is exerted on the knee.
• Discoloration under the skin, beginning with redness and progressing to the characteristic "black and blue" bruise.
• Restricted knee activity proportional to the extent of injury.
• Break in skin over the contusion (frequent in knee injuries).

Treatment

Follow your doctor's instructions. Instructions are supplemental

• Wrap an elasticized bandage over a felt pad on the knee. Keep the area compressed for about 72 hours.
• Use an ice pack 3 or 4 times a day. Wrap ice chips or cubes in a plastic bag, and wrap the bag in a moist towel. Place it over the injured area for 20 minutes at a time.
• After 72 hours, apply heat instead of ice if it feels better.Use heat lamps, hot soaks, hot showers, heating pads, heat liniments or ointments or whirlpool treatments.
• 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

During recovery ,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.

Prevention Tips

Wear protective knee pads during competition or other athletic activity if there is risk of a knee contusion.