If you are unaware of any trauma to your calf when your are biking, it can be disconcerting to see a bruise. A variety of causes could be responsible for the bruising, including muscle strain and broken veins. If the bruising is accompanied by pain, an injury is the most likely culprit. Calf bruises are common in runners and cyclists because of the strain on the legs. Consult a doctor if the bruise does not get better with self-care measures. Seek immediate medical attention if there is severe pain and swelling along with the bruising.
Features
Bruising is the result of blood vessels breaking under the skin. The broken vessels leak blood and it gets trapped under the skin. Bruises can happen on your skin or in your muscles and bones. They usually start as a reddish color and eventually turn purple or black or a greenish color when the blood cells lose oxygen. Bruises usually don't last more than two weeks. You also may experience swelling and pain along with your bruise.
Causes
Broken blood vessels leading to bruises on the calf are often caused by direct, blunt trauma, such as hitting your leg on your bike pedal. If you push yourself too hard or your muscles are weak or fatigued, you may strain your muscle, which can cause bruising along with swelling and pain upon movement. Varicose veins, those with malfunctioning valves, and medications can lead to bruising with minimal or no trauma, which biking could easily exacerbate. As you age, your skin thins and your vessels weaken, which also can contribute to bruising during physical activities, including biking. In some cases, bruising can be a sign of an underlying medical disorder, such as deep vein thrombosis, particularly if it happens for no obvious reason; biking may simply exacerbate the problem. Immediately consult a physician if you suspect you have deep vein thrombosis.
Treatment
Bruising is a trauma that should be treated as an injury would, with rest, ice, compression and elevation, the RICE protocol. Elevate your calf to reduce the blood flow, which will help it heal. Applying ice will help reduce swelling and pain by constricting the blood vessels. Compress your calf with a cloth bandage to help the healing process. Small bruises should go away quickly, but larger bruises may take up to 14 days to disappear. If the bruise does not start to diminish after a few days or if you have pain and suspect an injury, seek further medical attention. If your calf continually bruises after biking, despite no obvious injury or trauma, consult a doctor. Discuss any medications you are taking, particularly if you're taking blood thinners.
Prevention
If your bruising after biking is due to straining, weak blood vessels or weak muscles, taking some precautionary steps may help prevent bruising. Strengthen your leg muscles with calf lifts. Warm-up with calisthenics and stretching before you go biking. This will help strengthen the muscles and surrounding blood vessels.
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