Contusion and Bruises

An injury to soft tissue usually involve the arms and legs and can include injuries to the skin, muscle, tendons, ligaments, nerves and blood vessels.  Injuries to the soft tissue may occur independently or with a concurrent injury to a bone.  Traumatic incidents such as a fall, motor vehicle accident, assault can lead to a soft tissue injury.

A contusion (bruising) is an injury in which blood vessels have ruptured due to trauma or injury.  Incidents that can result in a contusion include a direct blow to the injured area (physical assault, being struck by an object), fall, motor vehicle accident and sports injuries to name a few.  The skin surrounding the area of injury remains intact resulting in bleeding from the injured blood vessels to collect under the skin.  A person with a contusion can develop swelling, pain and bruising or discoloration of the affected area.

Variations of skin discoloration can be used to indicate how long a contusion has been present.  Often, it may take up to several days for an actual bruise or discoloration to appear. Areas of injury may be swollen and tender for several days before bruising developing. The amount of bruising may indicate the amount of force of the trauma   A reddish blue or purple discoloration will be the first development of the contusion (bruise).  Thereafter, the colors may change to a greenish-yellow tint and brown until it clears.

Accident victims with significant soft tissue trauma and injury may need to undergo x-ray examinations to ensure that any underlying bones were not injured. Soft tissue injuries are often treated with rest, medications as needed for the pain, cold packs and pressure dressings to prevent an increase in swelling. Occasional, splinting may be required.

Always get prompt medical attention for yourself or anyone suffering a contusion. If you, a friend, or loved one wrongfully suffer an injury leading to a contusion, you ask why, and take immediate steps to protect your or their legal interest. Consider the suggestions in our accident guide, and call us immediately. We are here to help. At Larry King, P.C., we recognize the unique issues pertaining accident victims. You can call us seven days a week, 24 hours a day, everyday of the year. We also offer a free legal-infoline service, and you can now contact us on this web site. We are committed to doing the extra things it takes to help our clients.