Definition

Bruising of the skin in the area of the contusion caused by the breaking of the underlying blood vessels ( capillaries), normally caused by a blow to the arm.

Parts Involved

soft tissues of the arm, which includes the capillaries, muscles, connective tissue, nerves and the periosteum.

Signs & Symptoms

• swelling of the arm generally localized to the area of injury, can be either superficial or deep

• Pain and tenderness in the area of the contusion

• upon palpation a sense of firmness or stiffness to the skin and muscle is felt in the area of the contusion

• discoloration caused by the blood beginning to pool under the skin. It will usually start with redness and then progress the the characteristic black and blue color, that is typically thought of when someone gets a bruise

• if the contusion is severe enough and the inflammation is very pronouced then movement and range of motion can be restricted

Causes

There is only one real cause and that is a direct blow to the arm, but as most teenagers know if you suck hard enough on the skin you can also break the blood vessels and cause a contusion or in this case a hickey.

Risks

• bleeding disorder such as the inability to form clotting agents resulting in uncontrollable bleeding

• poor diet and nutrition

• use of anticoagulants such as apirin or ginko biloba

• blow to the arm

Prevention

If you are engaging in a sport or activity that involves contact try to protect your arms by wearing protective clothing or equipment.


In general a contusion on the arm is not a serious injury unless you are on anticoagulants or have a clotting disorder.

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