Causes of Bruising
Bruising, or muscle contusion, is bleeding that occurs underneath the surface of the skin. Normally, it is caused by injury, according to Ray Sahelian, M.D. Easy bruising and frequent bleeding are characteristics of clotting and platelet disorders, and they are also prominent features in some heritable disorders. Bruises accompanied by persistent pain or headache also may indicate a more serious underlying illness. While you should see a doctor if you suspect a disorder or illness, bruising after exercise is more likely the result of direct contact to the body.
Getting Bruises From Exercise
Athletes in all contact sports have many opportunities to get a bruise, and bruises are second only to strains as a leading cause of sports injuries, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Bruises can occur when a direct blow or repeated blows from a blunt object strike part of the body, crushing underlying muscle fibers and connective tissue without breaking the skin. However, bruises can also occur in non-contact sports as well. Heavy and rigorous exercise may cause bruises, which results from microscopic tears in blood vessels underneath the skin.
Bruising From Injury
A bruise that appears after your workout may also be the sign of an injury. If you have suffered a sprain, you may notice bruising around a particular area, in addition to pain, swelling and limited mobility of the joint. Common sprains occur in the ankles, knees, wrists and thumbs. If you suspect you have sprained a ligament, the Mayo Clinic notes using the P.R.I.C.E. method for home remedy: Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.
Treating Bruises
To treat a bruise, the Mayo Clinic suggests that you elevate the injured area, apply ice or a cold pack several times a day for a day or two after the injury, rest the bruised area, and consider taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain and reduce swelling. You should see a doctor if you have unusually large or painful bruises, you bruise easily and you're experiencing abnormal bleeding elsewhere, such as from your nose or gums -- or you notice blood in your eyes, stool or urine.
