Bruises & Sprains

More information about Bruising:

Possible Causes of Bruising
Bruises are caused by bumping into a hard surface, a sudden blow to the body, a fall or other injury. People who do not eat enough fresh uncooked foods high in nutrients can be more susceptible to bruising than those who consume a healthy diet. Heavy smoking, menstruation or underlying health conditions, such as AIDS, allergies, anemia, cancer, hemophilia, infections, obesity, myelocytic leukemia and abnormal platelet function, can all be causes of easy and frequent bruising. Anyone with thin, delicate skin can also be prone to bruising.

Possible Symptoms of Bruising
Bruises are discolored areas of skin that start out black or purple and change to red/blue, then yellow/green over the course of days or weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Bruising
When a bruise is present, apply ice to the area as soon as possible after injury and keep it in place for 20 to 30 minutes to stop bleeding. Elevate the bruised area above the heart level to divert the blood away from the injury, if possible. Apply shredded raw potato directly on the injury to reduce discoloration and soreness.

To prevent bruising, eat plenty of fresh, uncooked foods high in mineral content. Eat dark green leafy vegetables, buckwheat and fresh fruits high in vitamin C and bioflavonoids, including broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale and spinach. Eat foods high in zinc, like chicken, eggs and soybeans, to strengthen blood vessels. Do not take blood-thinning pain relievers, like aspirin and ibuprofen, because they can make discoloration worse. Acetaminophen, like Tylenol, relieves pain without thinning the blood.


More information about Sprains:

Possible Causes of Sprains
Sprains occur when an external force pushes a joint apart. In most cases, the joint gives a bit, resulting in a pull or slight tear. In more serious injuries, the joint is pulled completely apart and the ligament is torn completely. Some common causes of sprains include falls, physical contact or a twisted step. Sprains occur often in sports, especially basketball, skiing, gymnastics and football.

Possible Symptoms of Sprains
Symptoms of a sprain include a sharp pain immediately following the injury, swelling in the area, a “popping” sound in the joint, difficulty moving the joint, pain when pressure is applied and bruising. Pain occurs after the injury but tends to worsen over the next day or two.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Sprains
It is difficult to avoid sprains because one simple misstep can result in a painful injury. The best way to prevent sprains is to take special care when participating in sports and to warm up well before beginning any physical exercise. If a joint is injured, be sure to allow it to fully heal before getting back in the game. Sprains are best treated by resting the area, applying ice, taking pain relieving medications and seeking out professional rehabilitation if needed.