WHAT IS IT? DEAD LEG
A contusion with haematoma (bruising) is what is commonly referred to as a ‘dead leg, corked thigh,or charley horse’. Essentially there is trauma-induced internal bleeding of the thigh muscle. Damage can occur to the muscle, fascia and blood vessels.
Signs & Symptoms
Pain on muscle contraction or stretch
Stiffness
Bruising (may track down the leg)
Swelling
Tender to touch
Limb may be evident
What Causes It?
A direct blow/trauma to a muscle (usually the quadriceps muscle)
Common in contact sports (football, rugby and martial arts)
How to Self Manage
R.I.C.E. protocol
Apply ice in a quadriceps stretch position (pain free)
If severe do NOT use heat, stretch, have electrotherapy, or drink alcohol, as re-bleeding may occur for up to 10 days.
Prognosis
After a moderate to severe corked thigh it may be wise to pad the area to prevent further injury.
In serious injury, if calcification occurs (rare), then surgery may be required to remove the bony growth.
How Physio Helps
This injury can prevent return to sport due to pain and impaired function, so assessment of severity is useful for coaches and athletes
Depending on the severity determines the type of treatment.
If severe, than treatment is controlled to prevent the formation of calcification within the muscle.
Crutches may be provided if severe and unable to fully weight bear.
They will gently soft tissue massage (48 hours after the injury only) to the affected muscle to promote lymphatic drainage.
Use electrotherapy to reduce the bleedingPrescribe gradual stretching (pain free) and strengthening to regain normal range and function