Managing Calf Hematomas: Athlete-Focused Approaches introduction Muscle injuries are common in almost any sports medicine practice.
Managing Calf Hematomas: Athlete-Focused Approaches introduction Muscle injuries are common in almost any sports medicine practice. They are commonly reported in athletes involved in contact sports and can be a source of significant pain and limitation. Muscle contusions and strains can result in hematoma formation.
The consequences of a failed treatment can be very serious, postponing an athlete's return to sports for weeks or months because of possible recurrences and complications. The muscle hematoma can be the consequence of an impact against an external blunt or against a bone or of an excessive or uncoordinated contraction (indirect trauma). In a direct trauma, when the muscle is contracted, the contusion will impact more superficial tissues while, in a relaxed muscle, the structural damage and the consequent hematoma, generally occur in depth, nearest the bone.
The severity of the lesion depends on the site of impact, the activation status of the muscles involved, the age of the patient, and the presence of fatigue. Hematoma formation within the muscle may be intramuscular, intermuscular, or mixed. Intermuscular hematomas appear striking due to visible bruising and swelling, but intramuscular hematomas are considered more serious because as the hematoma enlarges, it occupies space within an intact muscle fascia .
This can create increased pressure that can lead to decreased muscle contractility , extensibility, and function. Intramuscular hematomas have a greater potential to develop post-traumatic myositis ossificans and fibrosis, and thus it is recommended that intramuscular hematomas be drained. Optimal treatment of skeletal muscle injuries begins with the correct diagnosis.
The clinical diagnosis of a surface hematoma is easier due to the detection of a bruised area of variable extension and depends on the extent of the trauma, contextual to swelling and loss of muscle function. On the other hand, the clinical diagnosis of deep hematomas may be more challenging. Point of care ultrasound can be very useful if there is suspicion of a hematoma.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to management of calf hematomas, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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