Hematoma on forearm

[Bumpy55]

3 weeks ago I fractured my left clavicle and sustained a large hematoma on my left forearm, right below the elbow, along with some serious bruising to my upper left arm and chest where my body absorbed the fall impact..  The fracture is healing well but the hematoma is subsiding only slightly; it is appears about 1/2 the size of an egg.  The coloration has improved a bit and I'm not in any chronic pain, I feel a little stiffness at night and morning.  I have been to my orthopedic twice and he recommens  NICE only because he sees such great improvement in my strength and mobility in my arm and shoulder.  I'm actually out of my sling after 2.5 weeks. What does concern me is that I had osteomylitis about 30 years ago and open reduction very close to where the hematoma is.  There is no fracture in the forearm or broken skin, but I am concerned about ostemylitis recurring.   Shoud I be?  The orthopedic says I should be ok as long as there is no pain or sign of infection near hematoma, and at this point there isn't any of those symptoms.  Do you have any further advice? Should I seek another doctor's opinion?

[Bumpy55]

thank you doctor!  I went to a dermatogist and everything is ok as long as the hematoma continues to subside and there is no pain associated.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The blood under the skin which causes the discoloration of bruising should be totally reabsorbed by the body in three weeks or less. Application of mild corticosteroid cream and oral antiinflammatories like ibuprofen/acetaminophen are also helpful.If the symptoms are severe then it will be best to consult a dermatologist.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.