Bad bruise on arm seems to be getting worse. Is it more than a bruise?

	Asked by Unregistered 023 on Mon 16, Jun 2008 10:34am :
	I was moving things from my apartment to my house. After moving, I noticed a lump on the top side of my forearm, about 1 1/2 inches back from the wrist (I didn't consciously bump it or fall). It was tender to the touch, but not discolored. It remained that way for the rest of the week. 1 week later, I moved a few more boxes, and the bump got bigger and started to discolor (it looks like a bad bruise). Its tender in the immediate area and I'm having trouble moving my arm, it feels fatigued, but not terribly painful. My fingers are tingly and my hand is cold. Is this more than a bruise? I don't want to pay for an xray if I'm overreacting.
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	Answer by Dr.Bhumika Aggarwal (doctor) on Tue 17, Jun 2008 09:04am: Hi, Secondary to trauma to a particular part of the body there are certain warning signs which need to be watched for - ' * Joint Pain * Tenderness at a Specific Point * Swelling * Reduced Range of Motion * Comparative Weakness * Numbness and Tingling http://sportsmedicine.about.com/cs/injuries/a/aa041801a.htm 'If you recognize any of the above warning signs the goal is to prevent further damage. The best way to do this is to stop all activity and begin treatment immediately. Don't let the problem get any worse and don't let the swelling continue. The first treatment indicated for any acute injury is reducing any swelling by using the R.I.C.E. treatment method. (Rest, ice, compression and elevation). Swelling causes pain and loss of motion, which in turn will limit use of the muscles. If you don't use the muscles, they will weaken, and shorten and resist repair. Do not apply heat to an acute injury. Heat will increase circulation and increase swelling.' If the symptoms still persist it would be best to consult your physician. You might then need an xray too - to rule out any fracture. Let us know if you need any other information nad post us about how you are doing. Regards.
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