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Quadriceps contusion
Mechanism: Blunt trauma from ball, helmet, stick
Usually to the central region
Damage to highly vascular area of the muscle and to local blood vessels can cause hematoma formation
Typical trauma history and pain worse with muscle activation (knee flexion)
Physical exam: Bruising, tenderness, palpable mass/hematoma
Goals of care: Minimize intramuscular bleeding
Treatment: NSAIDS, crutches, unique type of immobilization
Attempt to increase resting length of the quadriceps muscle to facilitate early healing and return to function
- Immediately immobilize the affected leg in 120°of flexion with an elastic wrap x 24 hr
- https://img.medscapestatic.com/pi/meds/ckb/18/43218.jpg
- Frequent icing
- Followed by early stretching/ROM (Consider referral for formal PT)
- Continue restricted weight bearing on crutches as needed
Note: Left untreated, large contusions may result in myositis ossificans