Myositis ossificans is a result of inadequate treatment for a contusion, leading to the formation of bone growth within the muscle. It typically occurs after a significant period of time following the initial injury.
Medically reviewed by Dr Chaminda Goonetilleke, 9th Feb. 2022.
Myositis ossificans symptoms
This condition arises post muscle injury or contusion and presents symptoms such as:
- Exercise-induced, gradual pain in the muscle.
- Limited movement range in the affected leg.
- A noticeable hard lump within the muscle’s depth.
Diagnosis:
The diagnosis can be confirmed through an X-ray, revealing the bone growth within the muscle.
What is Myositis Ossificans?
Myositis ossificans, a condition characterized by small bone growth within the muscle, is a potential complication from a severe contusion or muscle injury, caused by direct impact or trauma to the muscle.
This impact crushes the muscle against the bone, damaging the surrounding bone sheath (periosteum). If not adequately managed, the body erroneously dispatches new bone cells to mend the damage, causing calcification of a muscle portion, which transforms into bone.
Usually, this bone growth commences 2 to 4 weeks post-injury and matures into full bone between 3 to 6 months.
Causes
Common causes of myositis ossificans include:
- Failure to apply immediate cold therapy and compression after the injury or applying heat too soon.
- Intensive physiotherapy or massage too soon after the injury, can exacerbate internal bleeding and hinder healing.
- Returning to training too soon after exercise leads to the development of myositis ossificans.
Treatment
Should you suspect a case of myositis ossificans, promptly consult a sports injury specialist or doctor.
Typically, initial treatment suggestions favour conservative methods, emphasizing rest. You might need to immobilize the impacted limb for 3 to 4 weeks, allowing the body to reabsorb the calcification.
Using an X-ray, specialists can decide when to start rehabilitation and strengthening exercises. In extreme instances, they might opt for surgery to extract the bone growth.
