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Knee

Knee Contusion

A knee contusion is a bruise from a direct impact to the knee. It can involve the skin, soft tissue, muscle, or bone and may cause pain with walking or bending.

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Typical Recovery Time
Most contusions improve within 1 to 3 weeks.

Symptoms

  • Bruising
  • Swelling
  • Tenderness
  • Pain with walking
  • Stiffness

Common Causes

  • Direct blow
  • Fall
  • Sports collision
  • Impact injury
  • Contact trauma

Treatment Options

1Rest
2Ice
3Compression
4Elevation
5Gradual activity return

When to See a Doctor

See a doctor if pain is severe, swelling increases, or walking is difficult.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a knee contusion?
A knee contusion is a bruise to the soft tissues or bone around the knee caused by a direct impact. It can lead to pain, swelling, and tenderness. These injuries are common in contact sports and falls.
What causes a knee contusion?
It is usually caused by a direct blow to the knee, such as during sports collisions or falls. The impact damages small blood vessels and causes bleeding under the skin. This leads to bruising and discomfort.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness. The knee may feel stiff or sore with movement. Most people can still move the knee but with discomfort.
How is it treated?
Treatment includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Pain usually improves over time without major intervention. Activity should be limited until symptoms improve.
When can I return to activity?
Return depends on pain and swelling. Most contusions improve within a few days to a couple of weeks. Activity can resume once movement is pain-free.

Providers Who Treat Knee Contusion

Sports medicine specialists near you

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DH
Howard Kapp, MD
Orthopedic Surgery
📍 Naples, FL
✓ Accepting Patients
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DJ
John Kiel, DO
Primary Care Sports Medicine
📍 Tampa, FL
✓ Accepting Patients
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DJ
Joshua Hackel, MD
Primary Care Sports Medicine
📍 Gulf Breeze, FL
✓ Accepting Patients
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DS
Spencer Cahalan, DO
Primary Care Sports Medicine
📍 Gilbert, AZ
✓ Accepting Patients
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