Dead Leg

What is a Dead Leg?

This type of injury is very common in contact sports. An impact to the muscles can cause more damage than you might expect and should be treated with respect. The muscle is crushed against the bone. If not treated correctly or if treated too aggressively then Myositis Ossificans may occur. There are two types of contusion:

Intramuscular which is a tearing of the muscle within the sheath that surrounds it. This means that the initial bleeding may stop early (within hours) because of increased pressure within the muscle however the fluid is unable to escape as the muscle sheath prevents it. The result is considerable loss of function and pain which can take days or weeks to recover. You are not likely to see any bruising come out with this type - especially in the early stages.

Intermuscular which is a tearing of the muscle and part of the sheath surrounding it. This means that the initial bleeding will take longer to stop especially if you do not ice it. However recovery is often faster than intramuscular as the blood and fluids can flow away from the site of injury. You are more likely to see bruising come out with this one.

Symptoms of a Dead Leg

You might get swelling or bruising. Restricted movement is not uncommon.

After two to three days check:

  • If the swelling has not gone then you probably have an intramuscular injury.
  • If the bleeding has spread and caused bruising away from the site of the injury then you probably have an intermuscular injury.
  • If you are more able to contract the muscle you probably have an intermuscular injury.

How to treat a Dead Leg

  • Apply cold therapy and compression immediately.
  • Use a compression bandage or heat retainer until you feel no pain.
  • Gentle pain free quadriceps stretching - hold for 30 secs, repeat 5 times daily.
  • Ice, compress, elevate, use crutches for 3 to 5 days.
  • Operate if needed.
  • Use ultrasound and electrical stimulation.
  • Use sports massage techniques to speed up recovery in the later stages. Do not massage in the acute painful stage or this may cause severe damage including Myositis Ossificans.