Foot Contusion
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
A foot contusion is a bruise to the foot.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Medicines:
- NSAIDs: These medicines decrease swelling and pain. NSAIDs are available without a doctor's order. Ask your healthcare provider which medicine is right for you. Ask how much to take and when to take it. Take as directed. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding and kidney problems if not taken correctly.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Care for your foot:
Follow your treatment plan to help decrease your pain and improve your muscle movement.
- Rest: You will need to rest your foot for 1 to 2 days after your injury. This will help decrease the risk of more damage.
- Ice: Ice helps decrease swelling and pain. Ice may also help prevent tissue damage. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel and place it on your foot for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed.
- Compression: Compression (tight hold) provides support and helps decrease swelling and movement so your foot can heal. You may be told to keep your foot wrapped with a tight elastic bandage. Follow instructions about how to apply your bandage. Do not massage your foot. You could cause more damage or pain.
- Elevation: Keep your foot raised above the level of your heart while you are sitting or lying down. This will help decrease or limit swelling. Use pillows, blankets, or rolled towels to elevate your foot comfortably.
Exercise your foot:
You may be given gentle exercises to improve your foot movement and help decrease stiffness. Ask when you can return to your normal activities or sports.
Prevent another injury:
- Wear equipment to protect yourself when you play sports.
- Make sure your shoes fit properly.
- Always wear shoes on streets or sidewalks.
- Clean spills off the floor right away to avoid slipping or hitting your foot.
- Make sure your home is well lit when you get up during the night. This will help you avoid hurting your foot in the dark.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have increased swelling on your foot.
- You have severe foot pain.
- You are not able to move your foot.
- You have questions or concerns about your injury or treatment.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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