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Fractures - symptoms, description and treatment

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Obrázek: Zlomeminy
Fractures

Probably all of us have had the experience of a fracture. Typical is sharp pain after an injury, which is increasing. In addition, swelling, tingling, deformation or even bleeding. A fracture or fracture is a painful affair. It brings many limitations and treatment is calculated for weeks.

What to do when a fracture occurs and what to do to treat and heal it properly? What are the options for controlling symptoms such as pain, swelling or inflammation that accompany this condition? Read more here.

Symptoms of a fracture

The 6 most common symptoms or how to recognize a fracture:

  • Pain
  • The Island
  • Bruise
  • Inability to move
  • Deformity and unusual position of the limb
  • Bleeding (in open fracture) [1][2]

A patient with a fracture may also experience nausea and dizziness.[3]

Notice

Only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis. Do not use this or any other article on the internet to make a diagnosis. Don’t put off seeing a doctor and address your condition early.

Description and causes of fracture

Definice zlomeniny: narušení celistvosti kosti
Definition of fracture: disruption of the integrity of a bone

Definition of fracture

A fracture (also called a fracture) is an injury to a bone that results in its complete or partial rupture. Fractures usually involve bones in the limbs. They can also occur in other parts of the body (for example, the spine, pelvis or shoulder) [4 ] Bone fractures can take many forms – the types of fracture vary depending on where and how the bone broke. [5]

Fractures occur most often in falls, injuries and accidents. It can also be caused by osteoporosis, a disease in which bones thin. [6 ] Older age and an unhealthy lifestyle contribute to fractures. [7]

Types of fractures

Typy zlomemin
Types of fractures

They divide into several groups according to what the fracture point looks like. Where parts of the bone will shift or whether the bone will penetrate through the skin.

  • Closed
    The bone stays under the skin and does not come out of the wound.
  • Open fracture
    The bone penetrates the skin.
  • Dislocated fracture
    Parts of the bone may shift in some fractures – for example, sideways or lengthways.
  • Fatigue fracture
    It occurs, for example, due to long-term or unilateral stress. The typical patient with a fatigue fracture are athletes.[8]

Fractures can have different fracture lines. The bone may break transversely, obliquely or in a spiral. A splinter fracture can also occur.[9]

Risk factors

Denzitometrie ukáže hustotu kostní tkáně
Densitometry will show the density of bone tissue. Picture description: 1 - healthy bone. 2- bone affected by osteoporosis

Risk factor for fractures is osteoporosis (thinning of the bones). It mainly affects people over 50 years of age and menopausal women.

  • Osteoporosis makes bones brittle and more prone to fractures.
  • Regular checking of bone density by densitometry will show the level of risk. Depending on the results of the examination, the doctor can recommend appropriate treatment. [10]

Diagnosis of fractures

Magnetická rezonance (MRI)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Diagnosis begins with a physical examination, during which the doctor examines and palpates the affected area.

  • An X-ray will provide an accurate picture .
  • In some cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) is also used.
  • Thanks to these examinations, the doctor gets a detailed overview of the condition of the bone and surrounding tissues. [11]

Did you know?

  • Each person suffers an average of two fractures in a lifetime.[12]
  • The most common in working age you can have a wrist fracture.[13]
  • A fracture of the femur (the longest bone in the body) affects up to 20 people per 100 000 inhabitants each year.[14]

Complications in fractures

If treatment is not effective, this can cause a number of complications.

  • Setting the bone in the wrong position: Can lead to deformity and limited mobility of the affected body part.
  • Nerve and vascular damage: the nervous or vascular system may be damaged, leading to prolonged pain, numbness .
  • Infection: open can be a source of infection, which can lead to serious complications up to sepsis (blood poisoning).
  • Necrosis: If the blood circulation in the affected area is disturbed, bone tissue can be damaged and necrosis (death) of the tissue can occur.
  • Functional limitations: mobility in the affected part of the body may be restricted, which may affect the patient’s overall quality of life.[15]
Omezení pohyblivosti

Restriction of mobility

Dlouhodobá bolest a necitlivost

Prolonged pain and numbness

Infekce

Infection

Nekróza

Necrosis

Notice

We recommend not to postpone treatment of the fracture

Do not delay treatment for a fracture and see a specialist if you have any health problems or doubts about your health. This will prevent unnecessary health complications.

Treatment of fractures

Externí (vnější) fixace zlomené dolní končetiny
External fixation of a broken lower limb

A broken leg or arm cannot go without treatment. The key is strengthening (fixation), which will provide rest for healing. Resting and elevated positioning also contribute to reducing swelling. In some cases, it is necessary to first put the broken bones in the correct position – either by manipulating the limb in the doctor’s office or surgically in the operating room.

  • A cast, splint or brace is used to fix the fracture.
  • Various metallic materials are used in the surgical immobilisation of the fracture. It is reinforced either from the outside or from the inside using screws, wires and other metal tools. [16]
Notice

Attention

Treatment of the fracture can only be determined by your doctor after considering your overall health. Therefore, do not use this article as a guide to treatment, which can only be determined by a doctor.

Fracture healing time

Zlomený krček stehenní kosti
Fractured femoral neck

Each has its own specific procedures for treatment. They also have different healing times.

  • A broken ankle usually requires 6 to 8 weeks of treatment.[17]
  • A fracture of the femoral neck usually cannot be treated in hospital without surgery. Treatment can take up to several months. [18]
  • A fractured collarbone is a common injury and in many cases is treated with just a sling on the arm. More complicated requires surgery. [19]
  • Broken ribs usually heal spontaneously within 6 weeks. Patients must observe a resting regime and take care to breathe properly. Painkillers help with this.[20]
  • Distal radius fracture is very common, especially in the elderly. This is a type of bone fracture that is located in the lower part of the forearm and attaches to the wrist bone. It can occur as a result of an injury such as a fall on the wrist. Its healing time can generally take 4-6 weeks. If it requires surgical treatment, the healing time is significantly longer.[21]
  • Less common fractures include pelvic fractures. Uncomplicated ones heal without surgery within a few weeks, while serious pelvic fractures are a reason for urgent surgery. [22]

Broken ankle – What is the Weber classification ?

Patients often ask about Weber’s classification if they want to better understand their injury. This is used to assess the severity of the ankle fracture and how much the ankle has moved from its original location. It focuses on where exactly it is located in relation to the so-called. syndesmosis – which is a joint connection between two bones in the lower leg.

Ankle fractures according to the Weber classification are divided into three categories, depending on where they are located:
Type A: located below the syndesmosis.
Type B: undergoes syndesmosis.
Type C: located above the syndesmosis.

These three types of fractures can have different consequences and require different treatments. For example, a type C fracture may be the most severe as it may be associated with joint injury and require surgery.[23]

Medicines

Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugsare most commonly used in the treatment of fractures. Analgesics are commonly used drugs to relieve mild to moderate pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are another type of medication that can be used to relieve pain and inflammation.
In some cases, stronger painkillers such as opioids may need to be used if analgesics and NSAIDs are not effective.

First aid for a fracture

The principles of first aid for a fracture include:

  • Immobilization of the injured area (but do not try to return the broken bones to their original position),
  • stop bleeding in an open fracture (ideally with a sterile dressing),
  • applying a cold compress to reduce swelling and relieve pain,
  • checking the general condition of the injured person – after a fracture, shock may develop. [24]

If a fractured vertebra is suspected, do not move the injured person. Irreversible changes to the spine and permanent damage to health could occur. [25]

Physical therapy and rehabilitation

Rehabilitace u zlomeniny
Rehabilitation for fracture

Treatment is usually followed by physiotherapy. Properly chosen exercises will ensure that the weakened muscles in the affected area will become strong again.

The goal of rehabilitation is to fully restore mobility and momentum. Specific exercises and type of physical therapy will be recommended by the physiotherapist. The length of rehabilitation depends on the type of fracture and the age of the patient. [26]

Nutrition for fracture

Treatment of fractures can be supported by a balanced diet rich in calcium, protein and vitamin D.
[27]
On the other hand, you should avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption – both of which have a negative impact on bone quality. [28]

Prevention of fractures

How to prevent fractures? The risk can be reduced mainly by lifestyle.

  • Eat foods rich in calcium and protein.
  • Don’t forget the importance of vitamin D, which promotes calcium absorption.
  • Support bone quality and muscle mass with regular physical activity. [29]
  • Create a safe home environment to minimise the risk of falls. This advice is especially important for the elderly. [30]
Notice

Important cautions when dealing with a fracture

When treating a fracture, it is necessary to provide immobilization of the broken bone and a resting regime.

Treatment usually lasts several weeks and is followed by rehabilitation.

Follow all recommendations for fracture care, including any check-ups and X-rays.

Summary and recommendations when dealing with a fracture

1.

See a doctor

The treatment of a fracture is always determined by a doctor based on a general examination, an assessment of your condition and an accurate diagnosis.

2.

Causal treatment of fracture

After a general examination, your doctor will recommend treatment for the fracture. They will also advise you on possible lifestyle adjustments and the next course of action.

3.

Relieving pain, swelling and promoting healing

Symptomatic treatment focuses on the manifestations or signs (symptoms) of the disease. Such treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and support comprehensive treatment during the course of the disease.

Sources, references and literature

[1] Brazier Y. What is a fracture? Medical News Today, 24. August 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312

[2] Broken bone. MedLine Plus Medical Encyclopedia, 1. January 2022. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000001.htm

[3] Brazier Y. What is a fracture? Medical News Today, 24. August 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312

[4] Bone X-ray. RadiologyInfo.org. 15. April 2022. Available at: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/bonerad

[5] Brazier Y. What is a fracture? Medical News Today, 24. August 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312

[6] Broken bone. MedLine Plus Medical Encyclopedia, 1. January 2022. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000001.htm

[7] Once Is Enough: A Guide to Preventing Future Fractures. National Institutes of Health – Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center December 2018. Available at: https://www.bones.nih.gov/health-info/bone/osteoporosis/fracture

[8] Brazier Y. What is a fracture? Medical News Today, 24. August 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312

[9] Fractures. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/fractures

[10] Once Is Enough: A Guide to Preventing Future Fractures. National Institutes of Health – Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center December 2018. Available at: https://www.bones.nih.gov/health-info/bone/osteoporosis/fracture

[11] Fractures. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/fractures

[12] Arm Injury Statistics. The Ohio State University. Available at: https://u.osu.edu/productdesigngroup3/sample-page/

[13] Arm Injury Statistics. The Ohio State University. Available at: https://u.osu.edu/productdesigngroup3/sample-page/

[14] Denisiuk M., Afsari A. Femoral Shaft Fractures. StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; January 2023. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556057/

[15] Brazier Y. What is a fracture? Medical News Today, 24. August 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312

[16] Brazier Y. What is a fracture? Medical News Today, 24. August 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312

[17] Broken ankle. NHS, 11. March 2022. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/broken-ankle/

[18] Broken hip. NHS, 8. February 2023. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/broken-hip/

[19] Clavicle Fracture (Broken Collarbone). OrthoInfo, April 2022. Available at: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/clavicle-fracture-broken-collarbone/

[20] Broken ribs. Mayo Clinic, 15. February 2023. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-ribs/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350769

[21] Fractures of the distal end of the forearm. MUDr. Vlastimil Volf SANQUIS No.25/2003, p. 28. Available at: https://www.sanquis.cz/index2.php?linkID=art654

[22] Pelvic Fracture. Cedars-Sinai. Available at: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/p/pelvic-fracture.html

[23] How to recognize a broken ankle and what are the treatment options? MUDr. Michal Vilímovský, August 2022. Available at: https://cs.medlicker.com/2137-zlomeny-kotnik

[24] Fractures (broken bones): First aid. Mayo Clinic, 22. March 2022. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-fractures/basics/ART-20056641?p=1

[25] Spinal Injury: First aid. Mayo Clinic, 2. February 2023. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-spinal-injury/basics/art-20056677

[26] Brazier Y. What is a fracture? Medical News Today, 24. August 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312

[27] Once Is Enough: A Guide to Preventing Future Fractures. National Institutes of Health – Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center December 2018. Available at: https://www.bones.nih.gov/health-info/bone/osteoporosis/fracture

[28] Brazier Y. What is a fracture? Medical News Today, 24. August 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312

[29]Brazier Y. What is a fracture? Medical News Today, 24. August 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312

[30] Once Is Enough: A Guide to Preventing Future Fractures. National Institutes of Health – Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center December 2018. Available at: https://www.bones.nih.gov/health-info/bone/osteoporosis/fracture

How to control pain, swelling and promote healing? Try the application of 3D magnetotherapy