Bruises

Muscle bruises or contusions are usually a sign of a direct compressive force to a muscle.  A bruise can range from simple skin contusions and muscle or bone contusions to internal organ contusions.  When treating a bruise, you need to minimize hemorrhage and inflammation and control the pain.  You can do this by immobilizing it with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE).  This should be performed for the first 24 hours on minor contusions and for 48 hours on moderate or severe contusions.

Bruises usually stabilize by 24 - 48 hours, and at that time an evaluation should indicate further treatment.  Reinjury plays a major part in prolonging disability, and you should always try to avoid retraumatizing the injured muscle to prevent further muscle damage or pain.