Medical professionals can often use a cast or splint to treat a fractured bone. Splints only provide one-sided protection, whereas casts envelop the break in sturdy protection. The bone is straightened and kept immobile by both supports. The broken bone then mends and heals. You won’t get a cast for the tiny bones in your fingers and toes. Before using a splint, your healthcare practitioner could bandage the wound. Your fractures Munster specialist might occasionally need to place you in traction.
This procedure stretches the muscles and tendons around the shattered bone using pulleys and weights. The bone is aligned by traction to aid in healing. If you have some breaks, your doctor may propose surgery. Additionally, stainless-steel screws, plates, and fixators, or frames that keep the bone stable may be used in your therapy.
Causes of fractures
Healthy bones are incredibly durable and can withstand a remarkable amount of force. However, they may shatter or break if subjected to significant power. The major causes of bone fractures include physical damage, misuse, and health diseases that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis. Other variables might potentially raise an individual’s risk of fracture. Furthermore, a person’s bones typically deteriorate with age, increasing the likelihood of breaking. As an individual matures, the probability of acquiring a bone-weakening disorder increases.
Complications of bone fractures
A fractured bone, like many other injuries, can result in problems. These are some examples:
- Blood clots: A blood vessel blockage can break loose and travel throughout the body.
- Complications with wearing a cast: This may include pressure ulcers (sores) and joint stiffness.
- Compartment syndrome: This is characterized by bleeding or edema in the muscles around the fracture.
- Hemarthrosis: This is the swelling of a joint caused by bleeding into it.
Preventing fractures
All fractures cannot be avoided. However, you may strive to maintain your bones strong so that they are less vulnerable to harm. Consume a balanced diet that includes calcium and vitamin D-rich foods to preserve bone strength. Regular exercise is also essential. Weight-bearing workouts are very beneficial for increasing and maintaining bone strength. Some examples are walking, hiking, jogging, dancing, and weight training.
How long does a fracture take to heal?
The healing period for a fractured bone varies depending on the degree of the damage. For instance, a broken leg will take longer to heal than a broken arm or wrist. Furthermore, as you become older, you recover more slowly. Recovering from a fractured bone takes between six to eight weeks on average.
A fracture is a rupture in a bone’s continuity. Any bone can sustain a fracture, ranging in size from minor partial fractures to full breaks. The most frequent causes of fractures include physical trauma, excessive usage, and diseases like osteoporosis. In addition, as a person ages, their bones usually start to deteriorate. The body may heal most fractures; however, keeping shattered bones in place frequently requires medical assistance. Also, these treatments might include surgical screws and plates to external casts and splints.
Bones, despite their strength, can shatter. A bone fracture is excruciatingly painful, and you should seek medical attention immediately. In most circumstances, you will require therapy before you resume normal activities. If you are concerned about osteoporosis, consult your doctor. Call North Point Orthopedics or book your appointment online to determine which fracture treatment suits you.
