Which of the following soft tissue injuries usually occurs by striking a body part against a hard surface?
A Laceration
B Contusion
C Strain
D Sprain
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: B) Contusion
A contusion, commonly referred to as a bruise, is a type of soft tissue injury that typically results from a direct blow or impact to the body. This injury often occurs when a person strikes a body part against a hard surface or is hit by an object. The force from the impact damages the small blood vessels beneath the skin, leading to bleeding under the surface without breaking the skin itself. This internal bleeding causes discoloration, swelling, tenderness, and pain in the affected area.
Contusions can vary in severity depending on the force of the impact and the area of the body affected. They commonly occur in muscles but can also affect other soft tissues such as skin and connective tissue. The most frequent sites for contusions are areas where bone lies close to the surface, such as the shins, elbows, and thighs.
In contrast, a laceration is a tear or cut in the skin or flesh, often caused by sharp objects rather than blunt trauma. A strain is a stretching or tearing of muscles or tendons, usually resulting from overuse, forceful contraction, or excessive stretching. A sprain, on the other hand, involves the ligaments and typically occurs when a joint is forced beyond its normal range of motion, such as twisting an ankle.
Contusions generally do not require extensive treatment and heal on their own with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the RICE method). However, severe contusions may need medical evaluation to rule out deeper tissue damage or complications such as a hematoma or compartment syndrome. Recognizing a contusion as the result of blunt trauma helps differentiate it from other soft tissue injuries and ensures appropriate management.