Fractures Specialist

What are fractures?

A fracture is an injury to a bone. Fractures come in many sizes; some are finer than human hair,  others are large, causing your bone to break into several pieces. Regardless of the underlying cause, all fractures need treatment. Without immobilization or surgery, the bones won’t heal properly, affecting your mobility.

What are the symptoms of fractures?

Symptoms of fractures include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Skin discoloration
• Difficulty moving the affected area
• Inability to put weight on the affected area

Depending on the severity of the fracture, you might also experience nausea, faintness, or dizziness.

What causes fractures?

People experience fractures for various reasons. Some of the most common causes include general wear-and-tear, traumatic injuries, and osteoporosis. You might also experience a fracture if you live an active lifestyle or play contact sports like football or hockey.

How are fractures diagnosed?

To diagnose a fracture, your Orthopaedic Surgical Consultants provider asks about your symptoms, including where the pain occurs, if it extends to other parts of your body, and if standing up or moving around makes it worse.

Next, your provider orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan. These procedures capture detailed photographs of your bones and joints, allowing your provider to thoroughly assess the fracture.

After determining the type and severity of your fracture, your Orthopaedic Surgical Consultants provider develops a custom treatment plan.

How are fractures treated?

Treatment of fractures depends on various factors, including their location and severity. If you have a minor hairline fracture, your provider might recommend immobilization with a cast or a splint. 

If your bone breaks into multiple pieces, orthopaedic surgery might be necessary. During bone repair surgery, your provider uses metal plates, screws, and rods to hold the fragments of your bone in the proper position. Over time, your bones fuse together, restoring your normal function and range of motion.

How long does it take for fractures to heal?

The length of time it takes for a fracture to heal varies from person to person. Minor fractures typically heal within a few weeks, but more severe fractures can take months. To speed up your body’s healing process, Orthopaedic Surgical Consultants recommends:

• Eating a balanced diet
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Reducing your alcohol intake

It’s also important to attend your follow-up appointments and participate in physical therapy.

To learn more about the treatment options for fractures, make an appointment at Orthopaedic Surgical Consultants by calling the office or booking a visit online today.