Bone Contusion: Causes, Symptoms And Treatments
A bone contusion is an injury caused by blows or sprains that has symptoms very similar to fractures. Do you want to know what are its causes, symptoms and treatments? Keep reading!
Bone fractures are among the most common traumatic injuries, characterized by a total breakdown of the bone. However, there is a similar injury called a bone contusion , which can be simply defined as the partial breakdown of a portion of the bone.
Bones are calcified structures composed on a large scale of 2 distinct sections: a cortical and a trabecular. The first is the most resistant and is found on the outside, while the second is made up of vascularized fibrous connective tissue.
Bone contusion occurs when a section of the trabecular portion of the bone breaks, causing a pool of blood in the area and subsequent hematoma. Studies show that this injury is more frequent in adults, however, the prevalence in children is also high.
What are the symptoms of a bone bruise?
Cutaneous hematomas are easy to identify, since the discoloration of the skin is evident from the first moment. However, when it comes to a bone contusion or bone edema, the diagnosis can be more complex.
The most characteristic symptom of this injury is pain in the affected area, which increases with movement and decreases with rest. In the most severe cases it can remain during rest and even during sleep.
On the other hand, people with bone bruises may also have some of the following symptoms:
- Swelling near the area of injury.
- Swollen or stiff nearby joints.
- Injured area soft on palpation.
- Color change in the skin.
The duration of symptoms varies between 12 and 24 weeks. It all depends on the severity of the injury and how long it takes for the body to heal completely.
Main causes
The most common cause of a bone contusion is usually a trauma or a strong blow to some part of the body, such as with fractures. The most frequently injured areas are those where the bone is in intimate contact with the skin, such as the knee, ankle, or elbow.
In this sense, sports injuries, vehicular accidents and falls from heights stand out. On the other hand, joint sprains can also cause bone edema to appear.
Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to bone bruising. This is because the bones are affected by an underlying pathology, which makes them more prone to injury.
When is it advisable to visit a doctor?
Bone contusion can cause serious problems if it is not treated properly, so it is vitally important to see a doctor when it is suspected.
One of the complications of this type of injury is osteonecrosis, which appears when the edema is not adequately reabsorbed. It is the product of insufficient blood supply to an area of the bone, so the cells begin to die.
For its part, you should also see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms after a trauma:
- Large volume increase in the area.
- Severe swelling in a joint near the injury.
- Inability to move the affected limb.
- Intense pain that does not subside with the use of painkillers.
Diagnosis of bone bruise
The specialist will first focus on establishing how the injury occurred. In addition, you will need to determine the intensity of the pain and the presence of other symptoms.
In this way, you will ask multiple questions and perform a complete physical exam, as the contusion can be associated with other problems, such as ligament ruptures.
The true diagnosis of a bone bruise is made through imaging studies, so X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be indicated. X-rays will not show if there is a contusion, however they will reveal the general condition of the bone.
For its part, the MRI will fixate on the bone marrow, showing the existence of the lesion. This examination allows the precise location, extent, and size of the edema to be observed.
Available treatments
A bone contusion is not an injury that requires surgical treatment, as it usually heals on its own within a few months. In the case of mild contusions, rest and the consumption of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are prescribed to alleviate the symptoms.
Applying ice for 15 to 20 minutes a day can reduce inflammation in the area, however, it is important not to apply it directly to the skin. If the contusion occurred in the lower extremities it is important to keep the leg elevated.
In the case of severe contusions, the load on the affected limb must be reduced, so the use of crutches may be necessary. Limb immobilization is only recommended in cases where there are joint or ligament injuries.
Tips to prevent bone injury
Bone contusion and other osteoarticular diseases can be prevented by improving the general condition of the bones. Some changes in people’s lifestyles can have a significant impact.
Among the customs and activities that help keep bones in good condition, the following stand out:
- Maintain a balanced diet with the right nutrients.
- Exercising constantly or playing sports.
- Wear protective equipment when practicing contact sports.
- Do not smoke and reduce alcohol consumption.
Calcium is the main component of bones, so it is important to guarantee the supply of this mineral for proper bone remodeling. The ideal daily calcium intake for men and women is 1000 milligrams, however, studies have shown insufficient intake in up to 50% of the population.
Bone contusion is a problem that should not be underestimated
A bone contusion may seem like a minor problem that resolves on its own, however, it can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. Fortunately, treatment is very simple and is limited to the use of NSAIDs and regular monitoring.
Physiotherapy may be necessary in those cases in which the injury is very severe and affects joint mobility. However, the recovery process is relatively fast. Sequelae and complications are rare.
