Persistent Bruise
In April, my husband (20) sustained a bruise on his back while using a calf raise machine at the gym. Since that incident, we haven't returned to our workout routine. The bruise resembles an oversized kiss mark, stretching vertically along his upper back. Approximately a month ago, I attempted to show this mark to a friend, but when my husband lifted his shirt, the bruise had mysteriously disappeared. This morning, however, I noticed that it has reappeared. He is not on any routine medication, although he did take ibuprofen yesterday due to a recent diagnosis of tendinitis related to his knee discomfort.
Answers (1)
7/3/2025, 3:30:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds concerning to have a bruise reappearing months after an injury, especially if it comes and goes. This could be due to several factors, including underlying conditions or frequent strain in that area. Here’s a structured approach to help you address this situation:
Main Points:
- A reappearing bruise could indicate an underlying issue, but it’s not always serious.
- Monitoring symptoms closely and managing physical activity is important.
Explanation:
Bruises happen when small blood vessels break under the skin, causing blood to pool in the surrounding tissue. The fact that this bruise appears and disappears over time could point to several non-serious explanations, such as intermittent pressure or strain in that area, or a minor vascular issue. Given that your husband has tendinitis in his knee, it’s possible that he may be shifting his physical activity in ways that inadvertently affect other areas of his body.
Next Steps:
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Observe: Keep an eye on the bruise. Note when it appears and disappears, any associated pain or swelling, and any changes in his activity level.
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Avoid Strain: Encourage your husband to avoid activities that may put strain on his back until you have more information. This includes heavy lifting or workouts that don’t feel comfortable.
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Gentle Care: If he feels discomfort, applying a cold compress may help, especially if it’s tender. Ibuprofen, as he has used, can relieve pain and inflammation, but should be taken as directed and not for long periods without guidance.
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Record Symptoms: Keep a journal for a week, detailing when the bruise appears, any associated symptoms, and physical activities. This information will be useful if you need to seek medical advice.
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Consult if Needed: If the bruise persists, changes in size, becomes painful, or if he experiences unusual symptoms (like excessive bleeding from minor cuts, fatigue, or unexplained pain elsewhere), it might be a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider.
It's understandable to feel anxious about this ongoing issue. Keeping a close watch can help detect any patterns that might warrant professional evaluation. I hope this helps provide some clarity and reassurance. Let me know if there’s more you’d like to discuss!
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