Bones are rigid, strong, and resistant structures, but a great deal of force or pressure may cause them to break. Any break in a bony structure is called a fracture. While you cannot predict when a fracture will happen, there are many preventive measures you can take to reduce your risk of suffering a fracture.
Types of Fractures
An accurate diagnosis and imaging of a fractured body part may help categorize the injury before getting treatment. There are many fracture types, but the following are the most common:
- Comminuted – Breaking into many small pieces
- Compression – A portion of the bone breaks apart
- Greenstick – One-sided fracture, leaving an incomplete breakage
- Hairline – Only involves a thin or partial fracture
- Impacted – The fracture causes bumping and clasping of two bones
- Intra-articular – Bone fracture follows up and crosses the joint surface
- Longitudinal – Positioned at the axis of the bone
- Oblique – Bone breaks at a certain angle
- Spiral – A twisting pressure causes the injury
- Stress – Overuse and repeated strain leads to breaking of the bone over time
- Transverse – Breaks are perpendicular to the bone’s length
Doctors also categorize fractures as the following:
Closed Or Open
A closed fracture, or simple fracture, is a bone breakage that does not protrude through the skin. Meanwhile, an open fracture involves the sharp ends of a broken bone cutting through the skin.
Incomplete Or Complete
An incomplete fracture occurs when the injured bone cracks but does not break into pieces. In contrast, a complete one is where the bones snap into smaller parts.
Signs And Symptoms
Patients with a fracture may experience the following signs and symptoms:
- Intense and persistent pain
- Difficulty moving or using the injured part
- An apparent bump, swelling, or twisted area
- Unusual bruising and discoloration in the affected part
- Bleeding if fractured bone cuts the skin open
Bone fracture treatment is necessary in almost all cases. Do not hesitate to call for emergency help if:
- The patient is unresponsive and immobile
- There is heavy and continuous bleeding
- An injured body part is starting to go numb and turn blue
- There is an observed deformity
- The patient is nauseous and lightheaded
Preventing Fractures
Staying proactive can help reduce the risk of sustaining fractures. The following preventive steps can help:
Avoid Injuries
Trips and falls can lead to fractures. To avoid unnecessary injuries, you may consider balance training, removing clutter in your spaces, and maintaining good lighting. Also, wearing compatible footwear and gear and checking your visual capacity can save you from unnecessary injuries.
Get Moving
Exercising your body can improve your balance and endurance. Doing a weight-bearing workout regimen can maintain healthy and strong bones. Staying at a healthy weight also puts less burden on your bones, saving you from other orthopedic issues.
Pay Attention To Your Diet
Supplement your lifestyle with calcium and vitamin D-rich foods are essential for bone health. Some sources include almonds, tofu, dairy, leafy veggies, and whole grain. Strong bones are less likely to get fractured than weak ones.
Wear Protective Gear
When exercising or playing sports, wear the right protective gear to ensure you don’t get injured when a collision or fall occurs.
Different Forms Of Treatment
A fracture is a health emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Treatment depends on the type and location of the fracture.
Cast
A plaster cast is a standard aid in bone fracture treatment. Upon repositioning and realignment, the healing process of the bone can take place. You may need to wear a cast for several weeks until the fracture heals.
Functional Brace
A functional brace is vital since they limit joints’ range of motion in a controlled manner. However, it is not compatible with all types of fractures.
Performing Traction
Your provider may use traction to realign your bones.
Surgery
If your provider cannot realign or reposition your broken bones with a non-surgical method, they may use stabilizing devices via surgery. Some examples are metal plates, special screws, or insertable rods on the bone surface.
Bone Fracture Treatment In Dover, NJ
Looking for the best bone fracture treatment in Dover, NJ? At the Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey, we understand your pain and can get you the best and most personalized treatment. Our talented board-certified providers are here for your orthopedic journey, from diagnosis to recovery.
Call us at (973) 989-0888 to learn about our services or secure a consultation using our online appointment request form. Check out our blog for more information about fractures and bone health.
