A fracture is a break in a bone caused by an injury. Fractures can range from minor to severe, depending on the location, extent, and type of bone damage. One type of fracture may heal on its own, while another may need surgery and rehabilitation.
Fractures are usually caused by a sudden force or impact that exceeds the strength of the bone. Some common causes of fractures are:
Falls
Car accidents
Sports injuries
Violence
Osteoporosis (a condition that weakens the bones)
Overuse or repetitive stress
The symptoms of a fracture may vary depending on the affected bone and the severity of the injury. Some general symptoms of a fracture are:
Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Deformity or misalignment of the bone
Difficulty moving or using the injured part
Numbness or tingling in the injured area or nearby nerves
Bleeding or open wound (in case of an open fracture)
As part of a physical examination, a doctor will usually ask about the injury's history and mechanism in order to diagnose a fracture. In addition to confirming the diagnosis and assessing the extent of the damage, the doctor may order one or more imaging tests to confirm it.
X-rays: These use low doses of radiation to produce images of bones and show any cracks or breaks.
Computed tomography (CT) scans: These use multiple X-rays to create cross-sectional images of bones and soft tissues and show more details than X-rays.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans: These use strong magnets and radio waves to produce images of bones and soft tissues and show any damage to ligaments, tendons, muscles, blood vessels, or nerves around the fracture.
Bone scans: These use a small amount of radioactive material that is injected into the bloodstream and accumulates in areas of increased bone activity, such as fractures.
Several factors determine the treatment of a fracture, including the type, location, severity, and age of the patient. The main goals of treatment are to:
Relieve pain and inflammation
Align and stabilize the broken bone
Promote healing and prevent infection
Restore function and mobility
Some common treatment options for fractures are:
Immobilization: This involves using a cast, splint, brace, sling, or tape to keep the broken bone in place and prevent further movement or damage. Immobilization may be used for minor or stable fractures that can heal on their own.
Reduction: This involves manually or surgically manipulating the broken bone back into its normal position and alignment. Reduction may be used for displaced or unstable fractures that need realignment before immobilization.
Fixation: This involves using metal pins, screws, plates, rods, wires, or nails to hold the broken bone together internally or externally. Fixation may be used for complex or unstable fractures that need more support than immobilization or reduction.
Medication: This involves taking painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, or other drugs to ease pain, reduce swelling, prevent infection, or promote healing. Medication may be used along with other treatment options for fractures.
Rehabilitation: This involves doing exercises, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other activities to restore strength, flexibility, range of motion, and function of the injured part. Rehabilitation may be started soon after treatment or after the fracture has healed.
Fractures can be prevented by taking some simple measures to protect your bones and avoid injuries. Some tips to prevent fractures are:
Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to keep your bones strong and healthy.
Do regular weight-bearing exercises to improve your bone density and muscle strength.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake to reduce your risk of osteoporosis and bone loss.
Wear protective gear such as helmets, pads, gloves, shoes, or eyewear when playing sports or doing risky activities.
Follow safety rules and regulations when driving, working, or using tools or machinery.
Use assistive devices such as canes, walkers, rails, or ramps if you have balance problems or mobility issues.
Keep your home environment safe and free from hazards such as slippery floors, loose rugs, cluttered stairs, or poor lighting.
