Bone Fractures, also known as broken bones, occur when a bone is subjected to more force than it can bear, resulting in a partial or complete break. Fractures can occur in any bone in the body and can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, overuse, and underlying medical conditions.
Types of Fractures:
Closed fracture: the bone is broken, but the skin is intact
Open fracture: the bone is broken and has punctured through the skin
Greenstick fracture: a partial fracture in which the bone is bent and only partially broken
Hairline fracture: a small, thin crack in the bone
Comminuted fracture: the bone is shattered into multiple pieces
Transverse fracture: the break is perpendicular to the long axis of the bone
Oblique fracture: the break is at an angle to the long axis of the bone
Symptoms:
Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Deformity or angulation of the affected limb or joint
Inability to bear weight or use the affected limb or joint
Numbness or tingling in the affected area
Treatment:
Immobilization: using a cast, brace, or splint to immobilize the affected limb and allow the bone to heal
Surgery: may be necessary for complex fractures or when the bones need to be realigned
Pain management: using over-the-counter or prescription pain medication to manage pain
Rehabilitation: physical therapy to help regain strength and range of motion in the affected limb or joint
Complications:
Infection
Delayed or incomplete healing
Blood vessel or nerve damage
Osteoarthritis
Blood clots in the legs or lungs
It's important to seek medical attention if you suspect a fracture. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and promote healing.