Fracture Care

Fractures are when the bone breaks from trauma like a fall or a collision during a sport. A fracture can occur when there is a force applied to the bone that is greater than the bone can handle. The first step in treating a fracture is to diagnose it. This is usually done with an X-ray. Once the fracture has been diagnosed, the next step is to determine the best course of treatment. Treatment options include using a brace, cast, or surgery. The type of treatment that is best for each individual case depends on many factors, such as the type of fracture and where it is located on the body.

 

Common fractures:

•     Collar bone (clavicle)

•     Shoulder (proximal humerus fracture)

•     Arm (humerus)

•     Elbow (olecranon)

•     Wrist (distal radius or scaphoid fractures)

•     Finger

•     Pelvis

•     Hip

•     Patella

•     Tibia

•     Ankle

•     Foot

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Types of fractures:

-Closed fracture: the bone does not break through the skin

-Open fracture: the bone breaks through the skin

-Comminuted fracture: the bone shatters into three or more pieces

-Displaced fracture: the ends of the broken bone are out of alignment

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Treating a fracture:

There are different ways to treat a fracture, depending on its type and location. Treatment options include using a brace, cast, or surgery.

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Brace: A brace is used to support and stabilize the area around the fracture so that it can heal properly.

Cast: A cast is used to immobilize the broken bone so that it can heal in the proper position.

Surgery: Surgery is sometimes necessary to realign the bone and put it back into place. It may also be necessary to insert pins, plates, or screws to hold the bone in place while it heals.

 

Recovery:

The recovery process after a fracture depends on many factors, such as the type of fracture and where it is located on the body. Generally, it takes around four to eight weeks for a fracture to be healed to the point that it does not be protected. During this time, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions and keep the broken bone immobilized so that it can heal properly. After the bone has healed, you may need to do physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the area.