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Definition
A bruise—also called a contusion—is a common injury where small blood vessels under the skin break due to trauma.
They can occur without a cut or scrape and be anywhere on the body.
This causes blood to leak into the surrounding tissue, leading to skin discoloration.
Symptoms
Bruises change color as they heal.
They can be:
Red or purple (right after injury)
Blue or dark purple
Green
Yellow or brown (as it fades)
They may also feel:
Tender or sore
Slightly swollen
What Causes Bruises?
Bruises can happen from:
Bumping into something
Falls or injuries
Sports or physical activity
Medical procedures (like blood draws)
Why Children Bruise Easily?
Children bruise easily because:
They are active and still developing coordination.
Their skin and blood vessels are more delicate.
They fall frequently as part of normal development
Where Are Bruises Found?
Typical bruises in children are found on areas exposed during normal play and falls.
Shins
Knees
Elbows
Forehead
Prevention
Educate older children about high-risk behaviors.
Supervise play, especially in younger children.
Use protective gear (helmets, pads) when appropriate.
Childproof the home (place corner guards, secure furniture).
Care Advice
How To Treat Bruises
Cold Pack:
Use a cold pack or ice bag wrapped in a wet cloth.
Put it on the bruise for 20 minutes to stop the bleeding.
Be careful to avoid frostbite.
Heat Pack:
After 48 hours, put heat on the bruise.
Use a heat pack, heating pad, or warm, wet washcloth.
Do this for 10 minutes, 2 times per day, to help remove the blood.
Be careful to avoid burns.
Pain Medicine:
To help with the pain, give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen.
Use as needed.
What to Expect:
Bruises fade away in 1-2 weeks.
Call Your Child’s Healthcare Provider If Your Child Has:
Bruising without a known injury
Frequent or unusually large bruises
Bruises in uncommon areas, such as:
Back
Abdomen
Cheeks
Neck
Ears
Inner thighs
Bruising in a non-mobile infant (not yet crawling or walking)
Bruising along with:
Nosebleeds
Bleeding gums
Tiny red or purple dots on the skin (petechiae)
A bruise that does not improve after 2 weeks
Pain becomes severe
Your child becomes worse
Reviewed by SC 05/26