Most people experience bruises at some point. Bruising can cause noticeable discoloration and tenderness, and it may feel sore when touched. But sometimes bruising can occur deeper than the surface of the skin—so what does that mean, and how can it affect the way an injury feels and heals?
Bone marrow edemas, or bone bruises, can develop after an injury or traumatic blow to a part of the body. Generally, when a blood vessel breaks near the surface of the skin, blood leaks into the tissues under the skin and creates a bruise. These bruises can occur deeper within the bones as well.
Bone Bruise Symptoms
Some symptoms of a bone bruise include:
- Swelling
- Change of skin color
- Joint pain near the impact zone
- Joint inflammation and stiffness
- Pain or tenderness that continues after a skin bruise has disappeared
Bone bruises may lead to bone marrow changes that decrease blood flow, increase severe inflammation, and produce fluid inside of the bones. They are the most serious and painful bruises that a person can have, and usually are viewed as the stage before a fracture. Bone bruises can involve swelling and bleeding of the central cavity, between the cartilage and the bone underneath, or beneath the membrane covering the bone’s surface. Because of the severity, bone bruises typically take a couple of months to fully heal, if not longer.
How to Tell if a Bone is Fractured or Bruised?
A common question after an injury is how to tell if a bone is fractured or bruised. Both a bone fracture and a bone bruise can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness. That’s why it isn’t always obvious right away. In general, a bone bruise may feel like deep, aching soreness that slowly improves. A fracture is more likely to cause sharper pain, pinpoint tenderness over the bone, and difficulty using the area normally, especially with movement or weight-bearing. Because symptoms can overlap, the difference isn’t always clear without an exam and imaging.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bone Bruises
How long does a bone bruise take to heal?
A bone bruise can take several weeks to a few months to heal, depending on its severity and location. Mild bone bruises may improve within 4–6 weeks, while deeper bone bruises can take several months to fully resolve.
What does a bone bruise feel like?
A bone bruise often feels like deep, aching pain that comes from inside the bone rather than the surface. The area may feel sore with pressure, movement, or weight-bearing, and stiffness or swelling is common.
How long do bone bruises last?
Bone bruises may last weeks or months, depending on the amount of internal bone damage and how much stress is placed on the area during recovery. Symptoms usually improve gradually rather than suddenly.
How painful is a bone bruise?
Pain from a bone bruise can range from mild to significant. Some people experience constant soreness, while others notice pain mainly during activity or pressure. Bone bruises often hurt longer than surface bruises because they involve deeper bone tissue.
Can a bone bruise get infected?
A bone bruise does not typically become infected, since there is no open wound. Infection would be uncommon unless there is a nearby skin break, surgery, or another condition that introduces bacteria to the area.
Do bones swell when bruised?
Swelling can occur with a bone bruise. The swelling usually affects the surrounding soft tissues and joint area, rather than the bone itself, and may contribute to stiffness and discomfort.
When to Consider Further Evaluation
Ongoing pain, swelling, or limited movement may benefit from further evaluation. An orthopedic appointment can help assess symptoms and determine whether additional care is needed. You can request an appointment or call us at 732-720-2555 with AOSMI to discuss your symptoms and possible next steps.