A muscle hematoma is bleeding tissue following a contusion, strain or laceration. These injuries can be mild, moderate or severe and may be within a muscle tissue or between separate muscles. Along with medication to diminish pain and reduce swelling, physical therapy is often prescribed. Consult a physician to diagnose hematoma, as other disorders can mimic one.
Identification of the Muscle
Calf strains are common injuries. However, identifying the muscle involved in the injury is important for the treatment of hematoma. "Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine" states that the calf's gastrocnemius muscle often experiences hematoma because its crosses two joints: the knee and ankle. Strains and hematomas of the soleus muscle occur less frequently but are commonly involved among joggers and walkers, who have mild swelling. The plantaris muscle rarely experiences hematoma because of its location deep within the calf.
Hematoma and Hemophilia
Ten to 20 percent of muscle hematomas occur in patients with severe hemophilia -- a disorder that increases the time for blood to clot -- according to a study published in the November 2010 issue of "Haemophilia." Researchers reviewed current medical literature to describe treatment options. The best course of diagnosis would include ultrasound, MRI or CT scans with physical examination, they said. As for treatment, the researchers recommended the RICE strategy -- short for rest, ice (the affected area), compression and elevation -- along with stretching and strengthening exercises as part of physical therapy.
Treatment Options
A study from King's College School of Medicine in London investigated several treatment options for managing muscle hematomas. Researchers consulted with 22 colleagues from several U.K. institutions and reviewed 492 cases diagnosed over the past year. Researchers stated that bleeding in the calf and thigh -- each evident in 18 percent of cases -- following trauma is among the most serious situations. The study found no consensus in the timing and type of treatment but noted that blood-thinning medications and physical therapy were the most promising treatments for pain associated with muscle hematomas.
Cancerous Masses
High-grade sarcoma, cancerous soft tissue, can incorrectly be diagnosed as hematoma, which presents similar characteristics. A January 2004 issue of "The Iowa Orthopeadic Journal" reported a case of a 33-year-old male who kicked a vehicle and was diagnosed with lower-extremity hematoma and referred to physical therapy. Five months later, a biopsy was performed and the patient was successfully treated through surgery to remove a malignant tumor.
References
- "Haemophilia"; Current Practice in the Management of Muscle Haematomas in Patients With Severe Haemophilia" R. Beyer et al.; November 2010
- "Haemophilia"; Muscle Bleeds in Professional Athletes -- Diagnosis, Classification, Treatment and Potential Impact in Patients with Hemophilia; R. Beyer et al.; November 2010
- "The Iowa Orthopaedic Journal"; High-Grade Sarcomas Mimicking Traumatic Intramuscular Hematomas; P. Gomez et al.; January 2004
