Fractures simply refer to any kind of break or crack in your bones, which can vary from a mild crack into complete breakage. Furthermore, fractures are typically triggered by certain traumatic occurrences or while performing everyday activities in patients with a condition known as osteoporosis (low bone density). Read on to learn more about fracture care in Las Vegas.
What Is a Broken Bone?
A bone is said to be broken when it cracks or shatters into several pieces. Broken bones can be caused by an accident, violent trauma, or sports injury. Although broken bones are not life-threatening, they often require immediate medical attention. It is also important to know how to provide first-aid treatment to someone with a broken bone as you go seek professional assistance.
Symptoms of a Fracture
The following are some of the common symptoms of a broken bone, also known as a fracture:
- Intense pain at the injured area that worsens on movement
- Heavy bleeding around the injured site
- Bone protruding through the skin
- Numbness at the injured region
- Swelling, visible deformity, or bluish color around the injury site
First-Aid Care for A Broken Bone
Below are some quick first aid treatment measures you should apply when someone has a broken bone:
- Stop any bleeding: Do this by applying pressure to the injured site using a clean cloth or a sterile bandage.
- Immobilize the injured area: If you notice they have broken a bone in the back or neck, help them remain still. For the limbs, use a sling or a splint to immobilize the affected area.
- Apply cold to the area: Apply a bag of ice cubes to the injured region for at least 10 minutes.
- Treat them for shock: Assist them to get into a comfortable position, where they can easily rest. Make sure to keep them warm.
- Seek professional help: Go to the nearest emergency department or simply call 911 for professional medical care.
Remember to call 911 for medical assistance and begin CPR, if you:
- Notice they are heavily bleeding
- Suspect they have broken a bone in their neck, back, or head
- Notice a fractured bone has protruded through their skin
What is Fracture Care?
During the recovery process of a fracture, the inflammation tends to subside and bone remodeling and production begin. It is important to make sure that you receive effective fracture care to ensure that your broken bone goes through several stages properly as it recovers.
For minor fractures, your physician will start by realigning your bone fragments through an in-office closed reduction procedure. But for more severe fractures, your healthcare provider will have to perform an internal fixation or an open reduction in a surgical environment. Here, your orthopedist will realign your bone fragments and gently place pins, screws, or plates to keep your bones in their normal position.
As your bone heals, your doctor may recommend a fracture care management plan which may entail:
- Regular digital X-ray images
- Anti-inflammatory injections and medications
- Lifestyle and nutritional counseling
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Conclusion
At Battle Born Bone & Joint Center, we believe that effective fracture care is the most important stage among the several recovery stages. That is why our well-experienced team of orthopedic specialists is fully dedicated to providing you with integrative personalized fracture care. To learn more about our services, call us directly or simply book a consultation online.
