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It is critically important to apply ice and compression immediately after an injury. Studies show that recovery from an injury is directly related to how soon ice and compression are applied. More Ice Therapy facts »
Muscle Injury Needs Quick Treatment Response
Category: RICES
Mar 19, 2007
Three weeks ago, I had an injury while doing tae kwon do. I was kicked very hard in the front of my thigh. Since then, I have been unable to fully bend my knee and it is still swollen where I was kicked. Why is it taking so long to heal?
One of the most common injuries sustained in contact sports such as football and martial arts is a muscle contusion. This injury is caused by direct impact to a muscle from a blunt object, usually something like an opposing player's knee or a portion of their protective equipment. Common sites of contusion injuries include the upper arm, and the front, side and back of the thigh.
Frequently, these injuries are not taken serious. A delay in treatment or improper treatment can lead to a prolonged period of disability and, in some cases, a complication called myositis ossificans.
The injury causes soreness, pain and swelling at the site of impact. In more severe cases, there is significant loss of motion affecting the joints spanned by the injured muscles. For example, after sustaining a contusion to the front of the thigh, it may become very painful and difficult to bend and extend the knee.
The swelling is caused, in part, from injury to the small blood vessels and subsequent bleeding into the region. A collection of blood, called a hematoma, may be palpable at the site of injury.
Myositis ossificans, an abnormal growth of bone within the contused muscle, is a complication that develops in a small number of cases. The more severe the contusion is the greater the risk of developing this problem.
The treatment of a muscle contusion should begin immediately after the injury. Swelling is controlled with ice, elevation and compression wraps. The involved muscles should be immobilized in a stretched position for 24 to 48 hours. For example, if the muscles on the front of the thigh are injured, the leg should be immobilized with the knee in an almost fully bent position.
After the period of immobilization is over, the involved muscles should then be gradually stretched. A strengthening program is started only after full, pain-free motion is achieved. Athletes are allowed to return to full activity when strength and function are normal. This can sometimes take as long as three or four weeks.
You should consult with a physician. An X-ray and/or MRI should be performed to rule out complications such as a muscle tear, myositis ossificans or bone injury. In some cases, a structured rehabilitation program with a physical therapist may be the cure.