Periosteal is a bruise to a bone.

Periosteal bruise is a specific type of bone bruise that occurs on the surface of the bone, specifically on the periosteum. The periosteum is a thin layer of connective tissue that covers the outer surface of the bone. It contains blood vessels, nerves, and cells responsible for bone growth and repair.

Causes of Periosteal Bruise:
- Direct impact: A periosteal bruise can result from a direct blow or trauma to the bone. This can occur during sports activities, accidents, or falls.
- Repetitive stress: Continuous repetitive stress or overuse of a particular bone can also lead to a periosteal bruise. This commonly occurs in athletes who engage in activities that involve repetitive movements or high impact on certain bones, such as runners experiencing shin splints.

Symptoms of Periosteal Bruise:
- Pain: The affected area may be painful, especially when pressure is applied or during movement.
- Swelling: Swelling may be present around the bruised area.
- Redness: The skin over the bruised bone may appear reddened.
- Limited movement: The affected bone may have limited range of motion due to pain and swelling.

Treatment of Periosteal Bruise:
- Rest: Resting the affected bone is crucial to allow the healing process to take place. Activities that exacerbate the pain or worsen the bruise should be avoided.
- Ice: Applying ice packs to the bruised area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Ice should be applied for about 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Compression: Using a compression bandage or wrap can help minimize swelling and provide support to the affected area.
- Elevation: Elevating the injured bone above heart level can help reduce swelling.
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physical therapy: In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and proper function to the affected bone.

Conclusion:
Periosteal bruise is a bruise specifically occurring on the surface of a bone, affecting the periosteum. It can result from direct trauma or repetitive stress to a bone, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, and limited movement. Treatment involves rest, ice, compression, elevation, pain relief, and, in some cases, physical therapy. It is important to seek medical attention if the symptoms worsen or do not improve with conservative treatment.