
Types of Broken Bones
Although most fractures are minor, there are also many different types of fractured bones. Always seek medical attention for any type of broken bone, no matter the degree. This article will cover the different types of fractures such as stress, displacement, and comminuted. It will help determine the most effective treatment for your particular condition. It will educate you about the symptoms and signs that are associated with these kinds of fractures.
Comminuted Fracture
The broken bone in a comminuted fracture isn’t aligned during healing. Therefore, the bones might not heal properly or at all. Furthermore, broken bones could cause injuries to blood vessels, muscles, ligaments, nerves, tendons, and other surrounding structures. The healing process for fractures is more challenging than that of those that have normal alignment. The risk of infection is elevated due to a fracture that is comminuted.
The treatment of a comminuted bone fracture varies depending on the severity of the fracture and the individual’s health. The aim of treatment is to reduce pain, heal fractures, and return the injured region to its normal usage. A fracture that is comminuted may require surgical treatment. This includes the removal and insertion of pins, screws, and rods in the fractured areas. The procedure could require follow-up surgery to remove the pins.
Although a comminuted fracture of broken bones requires surgery, most times it can be healed with an easy cast or splint. Depending on the degree of the injury patients may be given an interim or permanent cast or splint following their fracture. The cast/splint will stop the broken bone from moving too much and help prevent further damage.
Stress Fracture
Stress fractures, a type of common broken bone are common. It can take anywhere from six to eight weeks to heal. During this time it is recommended to avoid any activities that put more pressure on the fractured area and avoid any physical exercise. Although it may seem tempting to return to your usual activities right away, you should be cautious. There is a chance that you will require surgery if you are overexerting yourself or resume high-impact activities while the fracture heals. Computerized tomography and X-rays may help determine whether or not a stress fracture has healed.
Your doctor will review your medical background and discuss your daily routine and work. Your diet and medications are also discussed. Your doctor will perform an extensive physical examination to rule out any other medical conditions or other reasons. It is important to consult your doctor if your body has an unusually heavyweight or blood pressure. Your doctor may recommend laboratory tests and nutritional deficiencies to determine the exact cause.
Stress fractures are more common in people who do repetitive tasks. Stress fractures can occur when an athlete is able to increase their activity too quickly or changes the workout surface, as these actions can cause the bone to fracture. Additionally, daily routine activities that require repetitive movement can lead to fractures as well. If untreated, stress fractures can cause serious health issues and require extensive treatment. Stress fractures can cause osteoporosis if left untreated.
Spiral Fracture
A spiral fracture is an injury to the bones that run along the length of the legs. The bones that are affected include the femur (tibia), fibula, humerus, and radius. Spiral fractures are more complicated than other broken bones and may result in bone separations or uneven edges. It is crucial to seek medical treatment as quickly as you can after experiencing the type of injury.
Spiral fractures can be treated depending on the type and degree of the fracture. Most people will need three to five months in bed in order to fully recover from this kind of fracture however there are various instances when your doctor may recommend surgery. A physical examination and imaging test will help your healthcare provider determine the best treatment for you. You should see a physician immediately if your injury needs surgery.
Spiral fractures are one of the most common forms of broken bones. They are distinguished by a twisting force that divides the bones. This type of fracture is most common among children since it is most often seen in the legs, but it can be seen in the arms as well. Spiral fractures can be more complex and could require surgery or physical therapy. You can still be able to recover from spiral fractures provided you follow the correct treatment.
Non-Displaced Fracture
A broken bone could be dislocated or comminuted. A comminuted fracture is a serious condition that causes bone fragments to be displaced from their original position. A non-displaced fracture is when the bone has not been moved. Non-displaced fractures heal naturally, unlike comminuted fractures that require immediate treatment.
Both kinds of fractures are treated in our office. Non-displaced fractures can be treated in our clinic. We also can imprison the patient to avoid future damage and encourage healing. It is also possible to examine the x-rays to determine whether the fracture is displaced. Immobilization is essential for treating fractures. We will start by doing exercises at home to restore complete body function. Then, we’ll gradually progress to strength and resistance exercises throughout the process of rehabilitation.
Based on the severity of the damage non-displaced or comminuted fractures can be classified. Comminuted, also referred to as a greenstick fracture is a fracture that is not complete. Children are more likely to sustain this type of fracture. Another form of non-displaced fracture is a transverse one, characterized by a break that is located at a right angle with the long axis of the bone.
Compound Fracture
A compound fracture occurs when a broken bone touches the skin. The bone is enclosed by the skin. When the skin cannot connect to the bone fracture line it can cause severe pain and make it difficult to move the joint injured. The bone could be dislocated away from the body and needs to be aligned. To help numb the area your doctor may use a neuro block during the process of healing. Certain cases might require the treatment of antibiotics or tetanus vaccinations to promote healing.
Your immune system can rush to the fracture site and boost blood flow if it is not healed properly. This could result in swelling and reddening of the bone fracture. While your body heals itself, the symptoms may be persistent. It is imperative to consult a doctor if you have any of these symptoms. The infection could become serious and could lead to death. The fracture may also require further surgeries.
Spiral Fracture in Children
Due to the nature of spiral fractures, they in children are especially dangerous. Violent shaking may cause injury to the brain and the spinal column. If not treated promptly it could cause swelling and hemorrhages. There are signs similar to broken bones. Here are the most common symptoms of a spiral fracture in children. Seek medical care if your child exhibits any of these symptoms.
There are a variety of treatment options for broken bones
Broken bones are treated with many different methods. There are a variety of ways to treat broken bones, such as surgery, frames, plates, screws, and screw replacements made of stainless steel. A lot of fractures can be avoided by being healthy and taking the right minerals and vitamins. Prevention is also possible indoors, by following certain tips, such as avoiding clutter and wires that could cross walkways and placemats that are skid-free under rugs. There isn’t a single treatment for broken bones; most fractures can still be managed or prevented with a cast.
Traction is another alternative to breaking bones. Although it is less common, it may be necessary. Traction is a soft pulling motion that aligns the bones by the gentle movement of the area that has been injured. There are many types of traction. The type that is suitable for you will be based upon the site of the injury, its severity, and the force required to move the bones. Below are a few of the different kinds of traction, and how they can help you.
In the beginning, you might require pain medications. Over-the-counter pain medications can be used to relieve discomfort. You should apply an ice cube to the area for 20 minutes every four days. It is also possible to apply a frozen vegetable or ice cube to treat the problem. Either way, the ice packs help in easing pain and promoting healing. This should be continued for a minimum of one week to make sure that your fracture heals completely.