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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Bruising And Swelling In Elbow After Hitting. Will It Get Cured On Its Own?

I fell early today and hit the side of my elbow on a tile floor. It didn't hurt but I could feel a little stinging. Later when I was looking at it I could see the skin was slightly bruising and now it's swelling and is a little sore to the touch. Should I go see my doctor or wait and see if it gets better on its own. I'm not in pain but it's somewhat sore.
Fri, 21 Feb 2014
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement,  's  Response
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.

Based on the description, I suspect that you might have developed a Hematoma, resulting in soreness and swelling.

The general treatment guidelines for your condition are as follows -

- Protect the injured area from further injury by using a support or splint
- Rest the injured joint . Avoid activity for the first 48 to 72 hours.
- Ice packing the painful area for the first 48 to 72 hours after the injury. Apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the day
- Use an elastic compression bandage around the injured area to limit any swelling and movement that could damage it further. It should be wrapped snugly around the affected area but not so tightly that it restricts blood flow.
- Keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce swelling.
- Use simple analgesics like aleve or advil as needed.

If your symptoms are not resolving with the above measures, consult an orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation and management.

Hope this information is helpful. Good day
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Bruising And Swelling In Elbow After Hitting. Will It Get Cured On Its Own?

Hi, thanks for writing to HCM. Based on the description, I suspect that you might have developed a Hematoma, resulting in soreness and swelling. The general treatment guidelines for your condition are as follows - - Protect the injured area from further injury by using a support or splint - Rest the injured joint . Avoid activity for the first 48 to 72 hours. - Ice packing the painful area for the first 48 to 72 hours after the injury. Apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the day - Use an elastic compression bandage around the injured area to limit any swelling and movement that could damage it further. It should be wrapped snugly around the affected area but not so tightly that it restricts blood flow. - Keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce swelling. - Use simple analgesics like aleve or advil as needed. If your symptoms are not resolving with the above measures, consult an orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation and management. Hope this information is helpful. Good day