Download Quadriceps Contusions(cork thigh)

Quadriceps Contusions (cork thigh) is the result of a serve impact to the thigh which compresses against the hard surface of the femur (thigh bone). This can cause a deep rupture to the muscle tissue and haemorrhage occurs, and inflammation follows. This injury can also occur in other body regions, calf or upper arm. Signs and symptoms – vary depending on impact of the force, and classified according to severity. Mild – player usually keeps playing, however may feel some soreness after cooling down, tender to touch, the ability to stretch and muscle strength may diminish. Return may be about 2‐3 weeks. Moderate – player may need to stop, however stiffening/swelling may be experienced with rest. There may be pain and tender to touch. Player will often walk with a limp and range of motion diminished by up to 50%. Return may be a minimum of 4‐6 weeks. Severe – player will have a rapid onset of swelling and bleeding, and may not be able to be controlled. Tenderness and muscle strength will be diminished. Movement loss will be severe and full weight bearing will be apparent. Return will be a minimum 8 weeks. The initial treatment is to apply RICER protocol, with the leg elevated, advise that the No HARM protocol to be followed, and refer on if swelling or bleeding doesn’t stop. Gentle, gradual, pain free stretching of the muscle will assist in restoring full range of motion in mild muscle contusion injuries. Moderate to severe may require crutches to ensure complete rest and particularly if full weight bearing on the affected leg is painful. In severe contusions, or poor management of treatment, there’s a greater t risk of Myositis Ossificans, which in this condition, calcification occurs in the healing hematoma. Symptoms include overnight and morning pain, pain on muscle contraction, may feel a hard bump or ‘woody’ feeling within the muscle, stiffness and knee range of movement loss. Bone formation associated with this condition usually ceases after six to seven weeks, at which time the bone begins to break down and reabsorbed by the body. Complete recovery can take up to twelve months in serve cases, and little can be done to accelerate the recovery process. An experienced sports medicine professional can assist with pain management and supervision in the rehabilitation recovery process. Pateena Steers