From the Guidelines
To heal a minor bruise outpatient, apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times during the first 24-48 hours to reduce swelling and pain, as recommended by the 2015 international consensus on first aid science 1. This approach is supported by the understanding that localized cold therapy can be safely applied to closed bleeding areas like bruises without risking hypothermia, even in pediatric patients. Some key considerations for managing minor bruises include:
- Applying cold therapy to reduce initial swelling and pain
- Elevating the bruised area above heart level when possible to minimize swelling
- Avoiding activities that could worsen the bruise
- Considering over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen for discomfort, while being cautious with aspirin and ibuprofen due to their potential to increase bleeding
- Switching to warm compresses after the initial period to improve blood circulation and speed healing It's also important to note that while local bruising and bleeding do not adversely affect clinical outcomes or the absorption of medications like insulin 1, frequent or excessive bleeding and bruising may indicate a need to assess injection technique or the presence of coagulopathy or anticoagulant use. However, for a typical minor bruise, these concerns are less relevant, and the focus should be on symptomatic relief and supportive care. If the bruise is unusually large, painful, doesn't improve within two weeks, or occurred without injury, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider as it might indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention.
From the FDA Drug Label
Purpose: As a topical aid for the relief of bruising, injuries, muscle aches, pain relief and pre-post surgically. Indications for Usage: As a topical aid for the relief of bruising, injuries, muscle aches, pain relief and pre-post surgically. To heal a minor bruise outpatient, you can use topical arnica 2 2 as it is indicated for the relief of bruising.
- Apply arnica topically to the affected area
- Follow the instructions for use as indicated on the label Note that these drug labels do not provide specific instructions on how to heal a minor bruise, but rather indicate that arnica can be used for the relief of bruising.
From the Research
Healing a Minor Bruise Outpatient
To heal a minor bruise outpatient, the following steps can be taken:
- Apply the RICE principle, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation, although there is limited evidence to support its effectiveness for ankle sprains 3
- Rest the affected area to prevent further injury
- Apply ice to reduce pain and swelling
- Use compression to help reduce swelling
- Elevate the affected area to reduce swelling and promote healing
Limitations of Current Evidence
- There is insufficient evidence from randomized controlled trials to determine the relative effectiveness of RICE therapy for acute ankle sprains in adults 3
- Treatment decisions must be made on an individual basis, carefully weighing the relative benefits and risks of each option, and must be based on expert opinions and national guidelines 3
- While RICE therapy may be recommended for injury relief, its effectiveness for minor bruises is not well-established 4