Fractures

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A fracture, also referred to as a broken bone, is a medical ailment where there is a break or split in a bone. Many factors, including trauma, repetitive stress, and underlying medical problems that weaken the bones, can result in fractures.

Types of fractures

  • There are numerous varieties of fractures, including:
  • Open or compound fracture: The risk of infection is higher with open or complicated fractures because the shattered bone pierces the skin.
  • Closed or simple fracture: With this kind of fracture, the shattered bone does not break through the skin.
  • Comminuted fracture: In this kind of fracture, the bone is broken up into numerous fragments.
  • Greenstick fracture: Children frequently have a fracture known as a "greenstick fracture," in which the bone only slightly fractures.
  • Hairline fracture: With this kind of fracture, the bone is only slightly shattered, but it is still cracked.

Symptoms

  • A fracture may present with the following symptoms:
  • swelling and discomfort in the afflicted area
  • difficulty moving the injured body part
  • Bruising or fading
  • Affected body part's deformity or misalignment
  • Affected region numb or tingly

Diagnosis and treatment

  • X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs are frequently used to diagnose fractures. The type and seriousness of the fracture determine the appropriate course of treatment. Typical treatments include:
  • Immobilization: Keeping the injured body part still helps the bone mend. A cast, brace, or splint may be used to immobilize the patient.
  • Reduction: This entails putting the pieces of the shattered bone back where they belong. Reduction can be carried out manually or through surgery.
  • Rehabilitation: Exercises for rehabilitation may be advised after the fracture has healed to assist the injured body part restore its strength and range of motion.
  • Drugs: To control pain and swelling, doctors may prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Surgery can be necessary in extreme circumstances to fix the fracture. Depending on the nature and severity of the fracture, recovery times will vary, although total bone healing can take several weeks to several months.

Prevention

  • Among the methods for avoiding fractures are:
  • maintaining a balanced diet that contains enough calcium and vitamin D to keep bones strong.
  • exercising with weights helps increase bone density and strength.
  • utilizing appropriate safety gear when engaging in high-risk activities, such as sports or construction work.
  • putting safety measures in place to stop falls, such as building railings and reducing trip hazards.

Also see

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