About morel-lavallée lesion
A Morel-Lavallée lesion forms when a shearing force, such as a fall, a tackle, or sliding on a hard surface, separates the skin and fat from the firm layer covering the muscle. Blood and fluid then collect in the space between them. It most often occurs over the outer hip and thigh, though it can appear at the knee or low back.
The swelling may show up right away or days to weeks after the injury. Small lesions sometimes settle on their own, but larger ones can persist, form a lining, and keep refilling. Early recognition makes treatment simpler.
Common symptoms
- A soft, squishy swelling that moves under the skin
- Bruising and tenderness after a fall or impact
- Numbness of the overlying skin in some cases
- A swelling that returns after going down
Common causes and risk factors
- Falls onto the side of the hip
- Contact sports such as football and wrestling
- Sliding or skidding injuries, including bike or motorcycle crashes
- Higher-energy trauma, which can also cause fractures
How we diagnose it
Dr. Chen examines the area and uses ultrasound at the exam table to see the fluid collection, its size, and whether a lining has formed around it. Ultrasound also checks for injury to the underlying muscle. MRI is added when the injury was high-energy or when a fracture or deeper damage is a concern.
How Propel treats morel-lavallée lesion
Small, recent lesions may settle with compression wraps, activity changes, and time. Larger or persistent collections can be drained through a needle under ultrasound, followed by compression to help the tissue layers stick back together. Staying gently active is encouraged once the area is protected.
Some lesions refill after drainage and need repeat aspiration. When a collection keeps returning, other in-office options or a surgical referral may be needed, and we explain those choices clearly. Seek urgent care for spreading redness, fever, or rapidly increasing pain, which can signal infection.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Questions about morel-lavallée lesion
- Is a Morel-Lavallée lesion just a bruise?
- It begins like a bruise but is a larger pocket of fluid trapped between tissue layers. Unlike a typical bruise, it may not go away on its own and can refill. Ultrasound can tell the difference quickly.
- Why does the fluid come back after it is drained?
- Over time, the pocket can develop a lining that keeps producing fluid. Compression after drainage helps the tissue layers seal. Lesions that keep returning may need additional treatment.
- Can I keep exercising with a Morel-Lavallée lesion?
- Often yes, with protection of the area and avoidance of direct impact. We guide you on which activities are safe while it heals.