contusos

Contusos, commonly known as contusions or bruises, are injuries caused by blunt trauma that injure soft tissues without breaking the skin. They occur when an impact damages small blood vessels, causing bleeding under the skin and local swelling. Contusions are common in sports, falls, and vehicle accidents, and can affect skin, fat, muscle, or tissues near the surface.

Symptoms typically develop within hours and include pain, tenderness, swelling, and limited movement of the affected area. The skin may appear red immediately after injury, followed by ecchymosis (bruising) that changes color over several days as blood is reabsorbed. In larger contusions, a lump or hematoma may form.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on history and examination. Imaging is rarely needed unless a fracture, deep tissue injury, or persistent symptoms are suspected.

Treatment focuses on reducing swelling and protecting the area. The common approach is rest, ice for about 20 minutes several times a day during the first 24 to 48 hours, compression with an elastic wrap, and elevation of the affected limb when possible. Analgesics such as acetaminophen are commonly used; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be considered with caution. Avoid vigorous massaging of the area and limit heat in the initial phase, as it may increase inflammation.

Most contusions heal within days to weeks, with discoloration fading as the hematoma is reabsorbed. Rare complications include persistent swelling, significant pain, or the development of myositis ossificans after deep muscle contusions. Seek medical attention for severe pain, deformity, numbness, swelling that worsens or does not improve, signs of infection, or trauma near a joint.

Prevention centers on protection, proper technique, conditioning, and adequate warm-up before activities. Protective equipment in contact sports can reduce risk.