Treatment/Therapy
If a bruise occurs in the shoulder area, the PECH rule should be followed as for all bruises. Any physical activity or strain should be stopped immediately (P for pause). In addition, a contusion requires prolonged immobilization until complete freedom from pain is achieved.
Immediately after the injury, the affected shoulder should be cooled with ice (E for ice) or another coolant. This reduces the blood flow and the extent of the swelling. Compression with cooling, anti-inflammatory ointment can also be applied in the acute phase (C for compression).
The shoulder should be relieved with an arm sling or similar to reduce the weight of the arm on the joint (H for high support). The shoulder must be spared during the further course of healing. If necessary, an analgesic medication can be taken.
Ibuprofen, Voltaren® or diclofenac are suitable. Aspirin® is less suitable, as its blood-thinning effect promotes swelling. Homeopathic medicines can also be used.
After the acute phase, around 48 hours, warming ointments may now also be applied, which can increase blood circulation and accelerate healing. If there is no pain, the load should in any case be increased slowly. Full exertion can lead to deterioration if the bruises have not healed.
Light massages or other physiotherapeutic measures such as kinesiotapes or electrotherapy can support the healing process. Kinesiologic tapes are used by physiotherapists, sports therapists and doctors for a variety of sports injuries. These include shoulder contusions.
The elastic tapes are self-adhesive and should be left on the skin for several days. The extent to which they support healing has not yet been scientifically explained. They are applied with a special taping technique.
In the shoulder area there are several possibilities.Two strips of tape are required. The whole procedure should be done by an experienced therapist, but is also possible at home. In any case a second person should assist to apply the tapes correctly under tension.
One possible technique is to apply one strip of tape at the height of the middle of the upper arm, this is then stuck around the shoulder diagonally upwards towards the back of the head, while the second strip reaches around the shoulder at the front. Directly after the impact or impact it is important to cool the affected shoulder. This reduces the blood flow to the tissue and less fluid escapes into the surrounding tissue.
Swelling and bruising can be greater the better the blood supply to the area. After the acute phase, approximately after two days, heat can then be applied in the form of ointments or heat packs. The increased blood circulation rate now supports the healing process.