During the course of a football game, every player endures a combination of hits, blocks and tackles. The constant physical beating on the body leads to various minor, acute injuries, such as bruising. Also known as a contusion or hematoma, a bruising remains one of the most common injuries encountered on the football field (see References 4).
Causes
Bruises result in pain and swelling, and come in primarily two types in football -- muscle and bone bruises. Muscle bruises occur as a result of blood vessels breaking with the black and blue coloration coming from the small amount of blood under the skin. Bone bruises, the more serious variety, occur as a result of bruising near or on the bone.
Severity
Most football-related injuries prove minor, but they can still turn into serious health issues. The constant pounding and contact on the bruise may prevent the bruise from healing properly. Symptoms that may result from serious bruises include blood in your eyes, stool or urine, persistent pain or headache. Consult your coach, strength coach or team doctor if you experience any large or unusually painful bruises.
Treatments
Treatment options for bruising revolves around the RICE method -- rest, ice, compression and elevation. Each treatment option helps relieve pain while reducing swelling. Use an ice or cold pack several times each day while elevating the injured area. Take over-the-counter pain relievers, according to the manufacturer's guidelines, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Use a specific pad during practice or games to protect the bruise.
Recovery
While most bruises heal within a few days, some bruises in specific areas last all season. As a result, use the transition phase immediately after the season for rest and recovery before starting the off-season training program. Allot four to six weeks for additional recovery programs such as massage or physical therapy to help the healing of the bruises.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Bruise: First Aid; Mayo Clinic Staff; November 2009
- Riverside; Bone Bruise: How Long Before It Heals?; MayoClinic.com Health Library; October 2006
- Sports Fitness Advisor; Off Season Training; Phil Davies
- Medline Plus: Bruises
- ABC News; Football Players Take Hits, Don't Always Bounce Back; Ron Schofield and Charlotte Rutherford; January 2007
