Simple Fractures – What You Should Know About?

A fracture simply refers to a break in the bone. While it sounds serious, fractures can occur in a variety of severities. Simple fractures, also called closed fractures, are a relatively common injury where the bone breaks but doesn't pierce the skin. While on the other hand, severe fractures like open fractures are more serious, and they may require surgical intervention including a variety of trauma implants like locking compression plates, variable angle plates, bone screws, or others.  

In this article, our focus will be on simple fractures including their causes, diagnosis, and treatment. 

What Are the Causes of Simple Fractures?

A simple fracture can occur due to various factors, with the most common being:

Sudden Impact: A fall, a blow to the bone, or a car accident can exert enough force to break a bone.

Stress: Repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping can lead to hairline fractures, especially in the lower leg and feet. These are called stress fractures.

Underlying Conditions: Diseases like osteoporosis that weaken bones can cause fractures even from minor falls or bumps.

What Are the Symptoms of a Simple Fracture?

The telltale signs of a simple fracture can vary depending on the location and severity of the break. Here are some common symptoms:

Pain: This is the most common symptom, usually intense and worsening with movement.

Swelling: The area around the fracture may become swollen due to internal bleeding.

Bruising: Discoloration of the skin due to blood accumulating under the surface may occur.

Deformity: In some cases, the bone may appear visibly bent or out of place.

Loss of Function: The ability to move the affected limb or area may be impaired.

How Simple Fractures Are Diagnosis?

If you suspect a fracture, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Diagnosis typically involves:

Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the affected area for swelling, tenderness, and deformity. They may also check for a range of motion and any functional limitations.

X-rays: X-rays are the primary imaging tool used to confirm a fracture and determine its location and severity.

In some cases, additional imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs might be needed for a more detailed evaluation, particularly for complex fractures near joints.

What Are the Treatment Options for Simple Fractures?

The treatment for a simple fracture depends on the specific bone involved, the severity of the break, and your overall health. Common treatment options include:

Immobilization: Casts or splints are used to immobilize the broken bone, allowing it to heal properly. The cast or splint will be worn for a specific period, depending on the fracture.

Pain Management: Medication can help manage pain and discomfort during the healing process.

Physical Therapy: Once the fracture starts healing, physical therapy exercises can help regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected area.

In some cases, surgery might be necessary for complex fractures, fractures with significant displacement, or those that don't heal properly with conservative treatment. Surgery typically involves internal fixation using pins, plates, or screws to hold the bone fragments in place while they heal.

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