Dr. Jiwu Chen

Sports Medicine Specialist

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Muscle injury care

Can a muscle contusion be massaged or heated?

Doctor’s answer

Strong massage or prolonged heat is not advised in the acute phase because it may worsen bleeding and swelling. Initial care should use protection, compression, ice, and elevation. Marked pain, limited motion, or a firm lump warrants assessment for haematoma or myositis ossificans risk.

Author: Dr. Jiwu Chen Medical review: Dr. Jiwu Chen