Typically, it is a collection of blood under the skin that heals quickly when treated with R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and pain medication. However, sometimes a bruise can be a sign of deeper trauma. If left untreated, some large bruises may even wind up causing permanent muscle damage.

In 2026, medical professionals emphasize that while most bruises are minor, leaving a severe one untreated can lead to complications like a hematoma, where blood pools and clots under the skin, potentially requiring surgical drainage. In some cases, an untreated deep-tissue bruise can lead to myositis ossificans, a condition where the body mistakenly grows bone tissue within the muscle during the healing process. Furthermore, if the bruise is a symptom of an underlying issue like a fracture or severe soft tissue tear, "pushing through" can lead to chronic pain, joint instability, or even secondary arthritis. While typical surface bruises resolve on their own, persistent or unusually large bruising should be monitored for signs of infection or compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency where pressure builds within muscles, potentially cutting off blood flow and causing permanent nerve and muscle damage.