A quadriceps contusion is a bruise to the thigh muscle, usually caused by a direct blow to the front of the thigh. It leads to bleeding and swelling within the muscle, causing pain, tightness, and difficulty moving the leg. It’s especially common in contact sports like football, rugby, basketball, and martial arts.

An analogy…

Think of the quadriceps like a sponge. If you hit it hard with a hammer, the inside bruises and swells, even though the skin might not break. That’s what happens in a contusion, the muscle is squashed and bleeds internally.

What are other names that a quadriceps contusion can be called?

Corked Thigh, Quadriceps Bruise, Corky, Quadriceps Haematoma, Charley Horse, Dead Leg

What causes a quadriceps contusion?

The quadriceps muscle group sits on the front of the thigh and helps to straighten the knee. A contusion happens when a direct impact (like a knee or hard object) crushes the muscle against the femur (thigh bone). This causes bleeding inside the muscle tissue, leading to inflammation, swelling, and pain. Severe cases can lead to myositis ossificans if not managed properly.

What are the signs and symptoms of a quadriceps contusion?

• Sudden pain at the front of the thigh after a knock or tackle
• Swelling and tenderness in the muscle
• Bruising, which may spread down the leg over time
• Difficulty bending the knee or walking normally
• Tightness or cramping in the thigh
• Muscle weakness or a feeling of “dead leg”
• In severe cases: visible lump or firmness in the muscle

What tests are used to diagnose a quadriceps contusion?

Palpation: To identify tenderness, swelling, and firmness in the muscle.

Range of motion testing: Usually shows reduced knee flexion.

Strength testing: Pain or weakness when trying to straighten the leg.

How long does a quadriceps contusion take to heal?

• Mild contusion: 1 to 2 weeks
• Moderate contusion: 2 to 4 weeks
• Severe contusion: 4 to 8 weeks or more, especially if there’s a large hematoma or early myositis ossificans

How does a quadriceps contusion happen?

• Direct contact trauma
• Falls onto a hard surface
• Inadequate padding or protective gear in contact sports
• Poor muscle flexibility, making muscles more vulnerable
• Previous thigh injuries can increase re-injury risk

What treatment can help a quadriceps contusion?

• R.I.C.E. protocol
• Gentle stretching and movement
• Progressive strengthening of the quadriceps
• Use of compression garments to support recovery
• Manual therapy (light massage or soft tissue work) later in the healing process

What exercises or stretches can I do for a quadriceps contusion?

• Isometric quad contractions
• Heel slides and active knee bends
• Bridges and straight leg raises
• Wall sits and bodyweight squats
• Foam rolling and light stretching

What products can help with a quadriceps contusion?

• KT Pilates Band Pack