A fracture is a partial or complete break of the bone. This happens when there is trauma or pressure is applied to the bone than it can take. Breaks can be caused by falls, trauma, or blunt force.
Overuse of the bones and muscles can put more pressure on the bones. This causes stress fractures. Normally, stress fractures heal by natural processes after being immobilized.
Fractures can also be caused by conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis or other autoimmune disorders. These types of fractures are also called pathological fractures.
Common Fracture Symptoms
- Obvious deformity
- Loss of function
- Swelling
- Bruising or redness
- Pain of sudden onset
- Inability to bear weight
Diagnosing a Fracture
- X-ray
- MRI
- CT Scan
Treating a Fracture
Splint or cast: this immobilizes the bones to keep them aligned and do not allow them to move out of position
Surgery: with more severe fractures, surgery may be required along with pins or rods to put the fractures back in place.
