How should my child be treated for a contusion or bruise?

Your child’s doctor will talk with you about specific treatment for your child. Some general guidelines to follow include:

• Rest the involved areas.
• Apply ice for 10 minutes at a time in the first 12 to 24 hours after injury to reduce swelling.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Tempra®, Panadol®) or ibuprofen (Motrin®, Pediaprofen®, Advil®) may be given for pain. Follow the directions on the box carefully or ask your doctor how much medicine to give.
• Do not give your child more than 5 doses of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period.
• Do not give acetaminophen to babies less than 3 months of age without a doctor's order.
• Do not give ibuprofen to babies less than 6 months of age without a doctor's order.
• Elevate the injured area above the heart to reduce swelling.