You have a bruise (contusion) on your foot. There is swelling and some bleeding under the skin but no broken bones. This injury generally takes a few days to a few weeks to heal. During that time, the bruise will typically change in color from reddish, to purple-blue, to greenish-yellow, then to yellow-brown.
Home care
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Raise (elevate) the foot to reduce pain and swelling. As much as you can, sit or lie down with the foot raised about the level of your heart. This is most important during the first 48 hours.
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Ice the foot to help reduce pain and swelling. To make an ice pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Do not apply the ice pack directly on the skin. Wrap the bag in a thin towel. Apply to the bruised area for 20 minutes every 1 to 2 hours the first day. Continue this 3 or 4 times a day until the pain and swelling go away.
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Unless another medicine was prescribed, you can take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen to control pain. Talk with your doctor before taking these medicines if you have chronic liver or kidney disease. Also talk with your doctor if you've ever had a stomach ulcer or digestive bleeding or if you are taking blood thinners.
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Depending on how serious your injury is, it may be painful to put weight on the foot or bend the foot while walking. In this case, your doctor may have told you to use crutches, a cane, or a hard sole or cast shoe. If so, use these devices as advised until your injury heals.
Follow up
Follow up with your doctor as advised. Call if you don't get better in 1 to 2 weeks.
When to get medical advice
Contact your doctor right away if:
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You have increased pain or swelling in the foot or leg.
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Your foot or leg becomes cold, blue, numb, or tingly.
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You have signs of infection, such as warmth, drainage, or increased redness or pain around the bruise.
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You can't move the injured foot or any of the toes.
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You often get bruises for unknown reasons.
