Bruises (Contusions)
Bruises (Contusions)
How to spot it?
Another impact related problem is bruising from contact with the beach, reef, boards and other surfers.
The minor cases are nothing to worry about but at it’s worst swelling within the fascia, which surrounds the muscle can restrict blood flow to the point of threatening life or risking amputation.
These kinds of bruises will normally continue to get progressively worse after the event and you are likely to lose more and more function.
How to treat it?
Most bruising will respond well to rest, ice, compression and elevation but for more severe cases medical help may be required for pain relief, to release the pressure of the trapped fluid.
How to avoid it?
The best thing you can do to protect yourself against contusions is be well conditioned for surfing.
That does not mean having a great “beach body” will save you – instead you should make sure your training is specific to the type of surfing you do.
For example, improved core stability and agility work should reduce the chance of taking a tumble in the wrong place. However, don’t forget there is no substitute for the ability to read the wave.
Fractures and dislocations are also common for surfers and normally occur from the same sort of incidents.