DEAD LEG

Quadriceps Contusion and Corked thigh are also common names for this

Introduction

The quadriceps muscles are a group of four muscles on the front of the thigh. A quadriceps contusion is a very common injury and is frequently known as a 'corked thigh'.

Common problems and causes

A quadriceps contusion is most common in contact sports and occurs when the muscle is directly struck by another object such as a competitors knee. Forceful contact to the muscle causes damage to the muscle fibres and blood vessels. Bleeding occurs and this causes pain, swelling and inflammation around the area.

There are a number of different forms of Contusion, some much more serious than others

Initial treatment

It is very important to limit the bleeding and swelling caused by the initial injury as excessive and continued bleeding will cause more muscle damage. For this reason it is best to stop activity immediately. The old adage of 'running out a cork' does not occur and can only lead to a more severe injury in the end.

Early treatment for a cork involves performing the RICER regimen. This aims to minimize bleeding and promote healing. It is important to realise that attempting to massage or 'rub out' a cork in the first three to four days can only serve to increase bleeding and worsen the injury. Some deep muscle corks may persist and remain hard and painful.

What to do

Consult your Physiotherapist who will assist in dispersing the gathering of blood to promote healing, regain full painless movement and strength and return to full sport. It is also advised to consult a Physiotherapist if bruising tracks down the leg to the knee or further as this may indicate a more severe muscle injury.

Criteria for returning to sport
1. Full range of painfree knee and hip movement.
2. No pain or restriction with running, jumping and kicking etc.

"Don't wait to get better"