Fractures are common injuries in adults, teens, and children, but they can also be a frightening experience. We’ll take a look at what fractures are, how they’re caused, and the treatment options available. We’ll also provide some helpful tips on how to spot a fracture and how to treat it.
What are fractures?
Fractures are broken bones. When the bone is fractured, it can no longer support the weight of the body. This can cause pain and discomfort, and in some cases, can lead to more serious medical conditions.
There are several types of fractures, and each can occur in different areas of the body. Here are a few examples:
– Skull fracture: This type of fracture happens when the skull is broken into two or more pieces. It’s often caused by a heavy object falling on the head, or by a violent impact such as being struck.
– Rib fracture: This type of fracture occurs when one or more ribs are broken. It can be caused by punching or other physical activity, falls from a high place, or another type of injury.
– Femur fracture: The femur bone is one of the longest bones in the body. It’s located in the thigh and helps us move our legs and hips. If it’s broken, it can cause severe pain and disability.
– Pelvis fracture: The pelvis is a large bone located at the front of the thighbone (femur). If it’s fractured, it can cause severe pain and disability.
Types
There are a few types of fractures that you should be aware of. These include:
- Colles’ fracture
- Posterior tibial plateau fracture
- Medial malleolus fracture
- Frontal fibula fracture
Each of these fractures can have different symptoms and require different treatment. If you or someone you know has a fracture, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Signs and symptoms
- Pain. Once someone has a fracture, the pain will be severe and may keep getting worse.
- Swelling. Swelling will be present around the fracture site. This swelling can increase over time and can make it difficult to move or function normally.
- Numbness or tingling. Often, people experience numbness or tingling in their arms and legs after a fracture. This can be a sign that the bone is healing properly, but can also indicate other injuries nearby.
- Loss of mobility. Mobility may be reduced after a fracture because of the swelling and pain involved. This can make everyday tasks difficult or even impossible.
Treatment of fractures
Types of fractures include closed fractures, open fractures, and compound fractures.
Closed fractures are injuries that do not require surgery. These fractures can be treated with a cast or brace. Open fractures are injuries that require surgery to fix. These fractures may also require a crutch or walker to help you move around. Compound fractures are injuries that involve more than one bone in the body. These injuries may require surgery, a cast, or a brace.
If the fracture is not too serious, you may be able to treat it at home with a cast or brace. If the fracture is more serious, you will likely need to go to the hospital for treatment.
There are several types of casts and braces available for the treatment of fractures. The most common type of cast is a plaster cast. This cast is made from clay or other soft material and is put on the injured area. The plaster Cast must be broken before it can be removed and replaced with another cast. A plastic (or fiberglass) casting is a newer type of cast that can be worn for longer periods of time.
A splint is a device that is fitted to a bone and helps to keep the bone stable. Splints can be made from plastic, metal, or fabric. They can be attached to the skin with tape or adhesive and worn for long periods of time.
Prevention of fractures
Fractures can be prevented through regular exercise, weight management, and a healthy diet. Strength training and aerobic activity can help to build strong bones, while a healthy diet includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.