Large, painful, or swollen bruises that develop within 30 minutes of an injury

A large, painful, swollen bruise that develops within 30 minutes of an injury could mean that a more serious injury has occurred. Serious injuries include:

• Damage to the ligament (sprain) or muscle (strain).
• A broken bone (fracture) or a dislocation.
• An injury to a medium or large blood vessel.

Broken bones, injury to blood vessels, and damage to the muscles and ligaments can all happen from the same injury. A health professional can evaluate the cause of your symptoms and recommend treatment. Prompt treatment can promote healing and prevent complications.