Bruising on the Knee – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Bruising on the Knee – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

Bruising on the knee, characterized by discoloration of the skin ranging from blue/black to purple or green, is a common symptom often resulting from trauma. While minor knee bruises are usually harmless, more severe bruising can indicate underlying injuries.

Several factors can cause knee bruising:

• Direct Trauma: Impacts to the knee, such as falls, sports injuries, or blows, are the most frequent cause. These injuries can damage small blood vessels (capillaries) beneath the skin’s surface, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissues.
• Minor Trauma: Even seemingly insignificant bumps or knocks can sometimes lead to bruising, especially if the individual is prone to bruising easily.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can increase the likelihood of bruising. These include bleeding disorders like hemophilia or von Willebrand disease, which impair blood clotting. Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can also make bruising more common.
• Medications: Anticoagulants (blood thinners) like warfarin or aspirin, while preventing dangerous blood clots, can also increase the risk of bruising even from minor injuries. Corticosteroids, used to treat inflammation, can thin the skin and make it more susceptible to bruising.
• Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as vitamin C or vitamin K, which play roles in blood clotting and blood vessel health, can contribute to easy bruising.

Diagnosing the cause of knee bruising usually starts with a review of the individual’s medical history and a physical examination. The doctor will ask about the circumstances of the injury, any other symptoms, and any existing medical conditions or medications. They will examine the knee for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. If there’s suspicion of a more serious injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear, imaging tests may be necessary:

• X-rays: Used to visualize bones and rule out fractures.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including ligaments, tendons, and cartilage, to identify injuries that might not be visible on X-rays.
• Blood Tests: May be ordered to check for bleeding disorders, low platelet count, or vitamin deficiencies.

Treatment for knee bruising depends on the severity of the injury and any underlying causes:

• RICE Method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): This is the standard initial treatment for most knee bruises. Resting the knee, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, using a compression bandage, and elevating the leg can promote healing.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation.
• Treatment of Underlying Conditions: If the bruising is due to a medical condition, the underlying condition will need to be addressed. This might involve medication adjustments, vitamin supplementation, or other specific treatments.
• Physical Therapy: May be recommended to restore strength and range of motion after more significant injuries.

Most knee bruises resolve within a week or two. However, if the bruising is severe, accompanied by significant pain, swelling, or inability to move the knee, or if it doesn’t improve within a few weeks, it’s essential to seek medical attention.

Related Treatments

• Knee Injury Clinic