During the first 48–72 hours after a muscle contusion, which therapy should be avoided to reduce swelling risk?

During the first 48–72 hours after a muscle contusion, which therapy should be avoided to reduce swelling risk?

• A. Ice
• B. Elevation
• C. Compression
• D. Heat

Answer: (D)

In the acute phase after a muscle contusion, the goal is to limit swelling by reducing blood flow and fluid leakage into the injured area. Heat should be avoided because warming the tissue increases blood flow through vasodilation and raises capillary permeability, which can worsen edema and bleeding into the muscle. Ice helps limit bleeding and reduces pain, elevation uses gravity to drain fluid, and compression physically minimizes swelling while supporting the area. After the initial swelling has subsided, heat can be considered to relax tissues and improve circulation, but not during the first 48–72 hours.

In the acute phase after a muscle contusion, the goal is to limit swelling by reducing blood flow and fluid leakage into the injured area. Heat should be avoided because warming the tissue increases blood flow through vasodilation and raises capillary permeability, which can worsen edema and bleeding into the muscle. Ice helps limit bleeding and reduces pain, elevation uses gravity to drain fluid, and compression physically minimizes swelling while supporting the area. After the initial swelling has subsided, heat can be considered to relax tissues and improve circulation, but not during the first 48–72 hours.