A fracture refers to a condition where
one or more bones in the body
break or crack due to external trauma.
Causes of Fractures
Falls
Occurs when you fall or slip and catch yourself with your hands
Sports Activities
Occurs during contact sports or high-intensity workouts
Traffic Accidents
Severe impact from car crashes or similar incidents
Industrial Accidents
Mechanical or heavy object injuries during work
Types of Fractures
Closed Fracture
A break in the bone without damage to the skin
Open Fracture
Bone breaks through the skin and becomes exposed
Simple Fracture
A clean break in one part of the bone
Comminuted Fracture
The bone breaks into multiple pieces
Symptoms of a Fracture
Severe pain at the fracture site
Swelling around the injured area
Deformity such as an abnormal angle or shape of the bone
Skin discoloration, bruising, or red spots on the injured area
Limited mobility, difficulty or inability to move the joint
Tenderness: Severe pain occurs when pressing on the area
Emergency Situation
If the wrist is severely deformed or the bone is protruding through the skin, immediate emergency treatment is required.
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is essential to plan proper treatment and achieve effective recovery.
Physical Examination
Assesses bone deformity, swelling, and pain
X-Ray
Identifies the location and extent of the fracture
CT Scan
Used for more detailed information in complex fractures
MRI
Evaluates soft tissue damage and the impact on surrounding bone structures
Fracture Treatment
Treatment is determined based on type, location, severity of the fracture, and the patient’s age and activity level.
NON-SURGICAL
Manipulation Aligning the fractured bone to its original position, usually under anesthesia
Immobilization Stabilizing the fracture using a cast or splint
Physical therapy Flexibility Recovery : Rehabilitation exercises, including stretching to maintain and restore flexibilityStrength Training : After immobilization, exercises to restore joint strength and function
SURGICAL
Performed in cases of complex fractures or when rehabilitation is difficult or prolonged.
Internal Fixation Bone is fixed using metal plates, screws, or pins
External Fixation Stabilization using a device positioned outside the skin
Precautions
Although rare, bleeding, infection, or blood clots may occur during surgery or procedures.
