Fracture (Broken Bone)

Overview

A fracture or broken bone occurs when a force is applied to a bone that is too strong to support it and it breaks or breaks. Fractures can range in severity from a hairline to a complete fracture and can occur in any bone in the body. The type of fracture depends on the nature of the injury, the bone involved, and the general health of the person. Dr. Irfan Malik at Mspine helps you to recover from this fracture (broken bone).

Symptoms of a Fracture

Depending on the severity and location of fractures, they can cause several symptoms:

• Pain: Sharp or intense pain at the site of the injury that worsens when you move or put weight on the area.
• Swelling and bruising: The area around the fracture may be swollen, bruised, or discolored.
• Deformation: In severe fractures, the affected limb may be deformed or stand at an unusual angle.
• Immobility: A broken bone often limits movement, and movement can increase pain.
• Numbness: In some cases, nerve damage from trauma can lead to numbness at the fracture site.

When to See a Consultant

If you suspect a broken bone, see a doctor immediately. Seek medical attention if:

• You have severe pain or swelling after the injury.
• There is a visible deformity or displacement in the injured area.
• You cannot move or put weight on the injured limb.
• Numbness, tingling, or a blue tint around the injury may indicate poor blood flow.

In the case of trauma, such as car accidents or falls from a height, immediate medical attention is necessary to evaluate for broken bones or internal injuries.

Causes of Fractures

Fractures can be caused by several reasons, including:

• Trauma or injury: High-impact events such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries often lead to fractures.
• Repetitive motion: Overuse injuries, such as running or jumping, can cause stress fractures, especially in the foot, lower leg, and hip.
• Osteoporosis: This osteoporotic condition makes the bones brittle and more prone to fractures, especially in the elderly.
• Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as cancer or bone infections, weaken bones and make them more prone to fractures.

Diagnosing a Fracture

If a fracture is suspected, your doctor will examine the area and possibly order imaging tests. Common diagnostic tools include:

• X-rays: This is usually the first choice to visualize the fracture and assess its location, type, and severity.
• CT scans: For complex fractures, a CT scan provides a more detailed look at the bone and surrounding tissue.
• MRI: This test helps identify fractures that don’t show up on X-rays, such as hairline fractures or stress fractures, and can also assess damage to the soft tissue around the bone.

Based on these images, your doctor will determine the type of fracture and develop a treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Fractures

Treatment depends on the type and location of the fracture, as well as the age and general condition of the patient. The main goals are bone realignment, fixation, and healing. Treatment options include:

• Cast or splint: For stable fractures where the bones are still aligned, a cast or splint will immobilize and support the bones' natural healing.
• Traction: This method involves gentle pulling to shift the bones. Traction is less common today, but may be used in some cases, especially in children.
• Repositioning: If a bone is misaligned, your doctor must manually reposition it, a process called repositioning. Closed reduction is performed externally, while open reduction requires a small incision.
• Surgery: Severe or complex fractures may require surgery. Metal pins, plates, screws, or rods can be used to stabilize the bones. This is common with fractures where simple immobilization is insufficient to maintain alignment.
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy: After the bones have healed, physical therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and mobility. This is especially important for broken bones or weight-bearing joints.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers can help manage discomfort while you heal.