Injury advice > Thigh Injuries > Myositis Ossificans

Myositis Ossificans

What is Myositis Ossificans?

A neglected muscle strain or contusion of the thigh can result in Myositis Ossificans. The most common cause is a blow to the muscle which causes damage to the sheath that surrounds a bone (periostium) as well as to the muscle. Calcification within the muscle (bone growth) may then follow, which can be painful. This may occur 2 to 4 weeks after the injury and be mature bone within 3 to 6 months.

How is this problem caused?

  • If R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression and elevation) is not applied as soon as the injury occurs.
  • If treatment such as physiotherapy or massage is applied too soon after the injury or too intensely. Ensure that you use properly qualified and insured professionals.
  • Returning too soon to training after exercise.

What are the symptoms of Myositis Ossificans?

  • You will probably have a restricted range of movement.
  • When using the muscle there may well be pain
  • You will probably feel a hard lump in the muscle.
  • An X ray can show bone growth.

Useful Products:

  • Cold Therapy - apply cold therapy as soon as injury occurs to ease pain and swelling.

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat Myositis Ossificans