Bruise Contrusion

Contusions occur when a direct blow or repeated blows from a blunt object strike part of the body, crushing underlying muscle fibers and connective tissue without breaking the skin. A contusion can result from falling or jamming the body against a hard surface.

Sometimes a pool of blood collects within damaged tissue, forming a lump over the injury (hematoma). In severe cases, swelling and bleeding beneath the skin may cause shock. If tissue damage is extensive, you may also have a fractured bone, dislocated joint, sprain, torn muscle, or other injuries.

Contusions cause swelling and pain and limit joint range of motion near the injury. Torn blood vessels may cause bluish discoloration. The injured muscle may feel weak and stiff.

To control pain, bleeding, and inflammation, keep the muscle in a gentle stretch position and use the RICE formula:

• Rest: Protect the injured area from further harm by stopping play. You may also use a protective device (i.e., crutches, sling).
• Ice: Apply ice wrapped in a clean cloth. (Remove ice after 20 minutes.)
• Compression: Lightly wrap the injured area in a soft bandage or ace wrap.
• Elevation: Raise it to a level above the heart.

During the first 24 to 48 hours after injury (acute phase), you will probably need to continue using rest, ice, compression bandages, and elevation of the injured area to control bleeding, swelling, and pain. While the injured part heals, be sure to keep exercising the uninjured parts of your body to maintain your overall level of fitness.

After a few days, inflammation should start to go down and the injury may feel a little better.            

Main Functions of Ares Kinesiology Tape

• May relieve pain and muscle fatigue
• May improve circulation and lymphatic flow via superficial activation while reducing inflammation
  
• May correct muscle function through reduction of muscle tension and strengthening of the weakened muscle
• May correct misalignment of joints
• May work with the body to allow and increase normal range of motion
• May normalize length/tension ratios to create optimal force
• May assist and improve tissue recovery
• May decrease inflammation and pressure on mechanical recept