BONE FRACTURES

If you suffer from pain caused by a bone fracture, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

The term “fracture” refers to a broken bone, the same way “crack” or “break” does. A bone may completely fracture or partially fracture in a wide variety of ways, such as crosswise, lengthwise, or in several places). Common fracture classifications include:

Stable fracture. The broken ends of the bone still line up with each other and do not stick out of place.
Compound fracture. The broken bone may pierce the skin at the time of the fracture. The bone may or may not stick out of the wound visibly.
Transverse fracture. In this type of fracture, the crack line extends across the bone horizontally.
Oblique fracture. The crack line of this fracture runs at an angle.
Comminuted fracture. When the bone shatters into three or more separate pieces.
Stress Fracture: Tiny cracks in a bone caused by repetitive force, often from overuse (running long distances, repetitively jumping). Stress fractures can also develop from regular use of a bone that’s weakened by a condition such as osteoporosis. Stress fractures are most common in the lower leg and foot since they bare a lot of weight.

Where are the most common areas of a bone fracture?

The most common areas for bone fractures include the wrist, hip, and ankle. Wrist fractures often occur when individuals fall onto an outstretched hand, causing the bones in the wrist to break. These fractures are particularly prevalent among children, athletes, and older adults with osteoporosis.

Hip fractures are another common type, especially in older adults. They usually result from falls or direct impacts and can significantly impair mobility and independence. The femur, or thigh bone, near the hip joint is typically the site of the break.

Ankle fractures frequently happen during sports activities or accidents involving twisting injuries. These fractures can affect one or more of the bones in the ankle joint, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.

Additionally, fractures of the arm, particularly the humerus (upper arm) and radius (forearm), are common in both children and adults due to falls or direct blows. These fractures require prompt medical attention to ensure proper healing and function restoration.

Bone Fracture Symptoms

Intense pain indicates a bone fracture, often accompanied by bruising near the injury site. A visibly out-of-place or misshapen limb or joint further confirms a possible fracture. Swelling and bleeding commonly occur at the injury site, and the affected area may feel numb or tingle. In severe cases, the skin can break with bone protruding, making the fracture obvious and requiring immediate medical attention. Limited mobility or an inability to move the injured limb or put weight on it are also critical signs. These symptoms collectively highlight the need for prompt evaluation and treatment to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

Bone Fracture Causes

Bone fractures result from various causes, including falls from heights, trauma, motor vehicle accidents, and hard collisions in high-intensity sports like soccer or football. Direct blows to the bone or joint area can also cause fractures. Unfortunately, child abuse can lead to bone fractures due to physical trauma. Additionally, repetitive forces, such as those caused by running, can result in stress fractures in areas like the foot, ankle, tibia, or hip. These fractures develop gradually from repeated stress and can be painful, particularly affecting athletes and individuals engaged in strenuous physical activities. Recognizing the causes of bone fractures is crucial for implementing preventive measures and prompt treatment to minimize complications and promote recovery.

Bone Fractures Treatment

Orthopedists can sometimes treat small, simple fractures by simply casting the area for 4-6 weeks. The physician will follow up on your progress with appointments and X-rays to the bone sets and heals correctly.

Most acute fractures heal with a cast, which includes immobilization of the bone. Unstable fractures will require surgery (open or closed reduction and fixation). After surgery, the area will be placed in a cast for different time periods, depending on the surgeon’s preference. New studies mention the use of arthroscopically assisted reduction of unstable fractures as a means of making an accurate reduction with minimal surgical trauma and earlier movement of the area.

Patients usually see a physical therapist after removing the cast to help regain strength and motion.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapists diagnose and treat patients with medical problems or injuries that limit their ability to take part in their daily lives. Patients will usually see a physical therapist after a referral by their primary physician. Physical therapists work with patients who have experienced an injury or disease that has affected their movement and range of motion.

If you would like to speak to a Texas Orthopedic Specialist in DFW, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.