Bruising in children can be a common occurrence due to their active nature, but it’s important to distinguish between accidental and non-accidental bruises. Here are some key points:
Accidental Bruising
- Common Locations: Shins, knees, elbows, and foreheads are typical spots where children might get bruises from everyday activities like playing and falling1.
- Patterns: Accidental bruises are usually found over bony parts of the body and are often on the front1.
Non-Accidental Bruising
- Concerning Locations: Bruises on soft parts of the body such as the abdomen, back, and buttocks can be signs of physical abuse1.
- Patterns: Bruises that form clusters, have petechiae (small red or purple spots), or carry the imprint of an object or hand are concerning1.
- Mobility: Bruising in non-mobile infants is particularly unusual and should be investigated1.
When to Seek Help
- If you notice bruises in unusual locations or patterns, or if a child has bruises and is not yet mobile, it may be a sign of abuse and should be reported to the appropriate authorities1.
