- 1). Put an ice pack on the bruise. If you don't have an ice pack, you can put ice cubes in a plastic zipper bag. Wrap the ice pack in a clean towel and apply to the bruise for 20 minutes.
- 2). Elevate the bruised area. Keeping the bruise elevated will restrict the blood flow to the bruise, limiting the swelling and blood clots that cause bruising.
- 3). Apply heat if the bruise is painful. Put a heating pad or warm towel on the area. This will help relax the muscles and dull the pain. You can also take a pain reliever.
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