Delayed swelling after injury

When soft tissue is damaged, there is usually immediate pain along with immediate or delayed swelling (excessive swelling can slow the healing process – see treatment below). Stiffness is also very common as a result of the trauma and swelling. Bruising may also develop after 24-48 hours.

1. Can swelling be delayed?
2. How long should I wait for swelling last after an injury?
3. How long does soft tissue damage take to heal?
4. Can soft tissue damage be permanent?

Can swelling be delayed?

Inflammation, swelling, and spasms in tissues can take either minutes or hours to develop, all while you're still using that part of the body and causing more trauma. The pain then shows up after the inflammation has developed and feels like it was delayed even though the injury has been there for hours.

How long should I wait for swelling last after an injury?

After you suffer an injury, swelling usually worsens over the first two to four days. It can then last for as long as three months as the body attempts to heal itself. If the swelling lasts longer than this, your physical therapist or doctor may need to take a closer look to determine the cause of the delayed healing.

How long does soft tissue damage take to heal?

Most soft tissue injuries heal within two to three weeks. If you still have significant pain or stiffness one week after a finger injury or two or three weeks after other injuries, you should come back to the Emergency Department.

Can soft tissue damage be permanent?

Yes, soft tissue injuries may be permanent if you suffer a severe contusion on the muscles, tendons or ligaments. They may result in long-lasting effects that never properly heal. When soft tissue damage becomes catastrophic or permanent, a person's life may change forever if they underestimate their injuries.