A bone fracture is a medical term for a broken bone, which can result from various causes such as a sudden impact, excessive force, overuse, or underlying medical conditions. While fractures can affect people at any age, they are more common in children due to their active lifestyles and in older adults due to weakened bones from age-related conditions. Dr Lauren Papa will discuss some telltale signs of a bone fracture.
Identifying Symptoms Of A Bone Fracture
While the presentation of a bone fracture can vary depending on the affected bone, severity, and nature of the fracture, there are a number of common symptoms that you can easily detect. First of all, there’s pain and tenderness. Often, intense pain and tenderness at the injured site are among the first symptoms experienced.
Second, fractures can cause swelling, inflammation, and bruising in the affected area due to tissue damage and possible hemorrhage. In some cases, you may experience difficulty moving the injured limb or a limited range of motion due to pain or damage to the surrounding structures.
Other than that, a visible deformity, such as an abnormal angle, twisting, or displacement of the injured region, can indicate a fracture. Also, audible grating or cracking sounds produced when the broken bone ends rub against each other may signal a fracture. And in more severe cases, the person may experience signs of shock like rapid pulse, shallow breathing, cold and clammy skin, or even fainting.
The Importance Of A Timely Bone Fracture Diagnosis
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, then it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and management of bone fractures can prevent complications and ensure proper healing. It’s important not to ignore symptoms of fracture or delay seeking care.
The right fracture treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture and may involve immobilization (casts or splints), realignment of bone fragments, or surgery. Dr Lauren Papa Physical therapy and rehabilitation become essential once the fracture has been stabilized and starts to heal to ensure a return to normal function.