Fractures can cause discomfort, pain, and hindrance in free motion. If unattended, it could lead to serious health consequences and complete deterioration of the bones.
Bone fractures, although common, are not to be taken lightly. Fractures occur if there is a discontinuation of a bone. It can be caused due to several reasons. Firstly, if there is a high impact blow on a bone, it could lead to cracks and even breakage. Next, medical conditions such as osteoporosis and bone cancer can result in fracture as the bone density is extremely low and the bone becomes fragile and vulnerable to even mild blows and force. A fracture is often recognizable through evident symptoms. The moment the slightest sign of a fracture surfaces, the patient must visit the doctor and get an X-ray to confirm its occurrence and start treatment immediately.
Symptoms of a fracture:
The symptoms can differ from person to person and depending upon the cause that led to the fracture. Here are some common symptoms noted by medical professionals:
- Swelling of the affected area.
- Pain
- Bruises
- Discoloration of the skin in the area.
- Inability to move or use the particular part of the body.
- Inability to lift any weighted objects.
There are several types of fracture. Some of them are pathological fracture, hairline fracture etc.
Treating a fracture:
The first task is to get an X-ray. An X-ray will clearly denote if you have a fracture. Depending on the kind of fracture, the treatment is given. In compound fractures, the skin needs to be cut open in order to join the broken bone. Fracture reduction is also done under proper sedation. During the surgery, immobilization of the bone takes place which gives the bone a higher chance at optimal healing. Metal plates, screws, casts, fixators etc are used as per requirement to hold the bone in place which will further develop and join to get back to its normal function. Post surgery, rest is required to heal the damaged tissues surrounding the bone. The bone needs to heal and at this time, calcium intake is increased in the form of medication and through dietary means.
Recovering from a fracture can take time from a couple of weeks to several months. It depends on how badly the bone has been damaged. The patient must visit the doctor for regular check-up and dressing. Post the removal of the plaster or even during, physiotherapy sessions could be recommended. Physiotherapy sessions improve the possibility of better bone and body movement. If you have a leg fracture, the physiotherapist will help you walk over a period of time.
Post recovery from a fracture, the patient must take steps to prevent the reoccurrence of a fracture which might to an extremely painful recap. The most basic way of prevention is to maintain healthy bones and avoid any high-impact blows that could cause severe damage to the bones. Just a bit of attention and a whole lot of care and consideration for your bones will do the trick to keep you intact and all your bones in one piece.