How to treat bruises on legs

Bruises can be painful and unsightly.

When we get a bruise, our first instinct is often to put ice on it. But does ice actually help bruises heal faster?

How do you get rid of a bruise in 24 hours

Let’s take a look at the evidence.

What is a bruise?

A bruise, also called a contusion, occurs when an impact causes tiny blood vessels under the skin to break. Blood leaks into the surrounding tissues, causing discoloration.

The injured area initially turns reddish as blood pools, then changes to a blue or purplish color as the blood breaks down. Finally it turns greenish or yellowish as the bruise fades. This whole process can take 1-4 weeks depending on the severity of the injury.

How does ice help with bruises?

Applying something cold, like ice, to a new bruise can provide several benefits:

• The cold causes the blood vessels to constrict, reducing internal bleeding into the tissues.

  This may limit the size of the bruise.

• The cold helps numb the pain and provides comfort.
• It decreases cellular metabolism and inflammation.

Doctors often recommend applying ice for 20 minutes at a time in the first 24-48 hours after

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