King2005,

Sorry, but I just noticed this thread for me. I hope you're okay! My leg is taking sometime to heal because the scrape on my shin was very deep. I still have scabs on my patella (kneecap) and everytime I kneel on it, it hurts!!

I've found lately that my ankles and knees give way at any opportune moment. I don't necessarily have to be running or anything, just walking normally. It's an awful, helpless feeling. It's also very embarassing when I do it in the company of lots of strangers.

The best way to prevent bruising (other than NOT falling or whacking a body part) is to put ice on it immediately. I did, but unfortunately it was too late.