What is Fracture Treatment?

Fracture treatment involves medical care provided to repair a broken bone and restore it to normal function. The type and extent of treatment depend on the location, type, and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient’s overall health and age.

Key Steps in Fracture Treatment:

1. Diagnosis:

   • Physical Examination: Assessing the injury site for swelling, bruising, deformity, and pain.
   • Imaging Tests: X-rays are commonly used to visualize the fracture. CT scans or MRIs may be required for complex fractures.

2. Initial Care:

   • Immobilization: Stabilizing the injured area with a splint or sling to prevent further damage.
   • Pain Management: Administering pain relief medication to manage discomfort.

Types of Fracture Treatments:

1. Non-Surgical Treatment:

   • Casting: A cast made of plaster or fiberglass is applied to immobilize the bone and allow it to heal properly. Casts are commonly used for simple fractures.
   • Bracing: Similar to casting, but allows for more movement of the adjacent joints while stabilizing the fracture.
   • Traction: Applying a steady pulling force to align the bones. This method is less common but may be used for specific types of fractures.

2. Surgical Treatment:

   • Internal Fixation: Surgical insertion of metal rods, screws, or plates to hold the bone fragments together. This method is used for complex or unstable fractures.
   • External Fixation: Metal pins or screws are placed into the bone above and below the fracture site. These are connected to a metal bar outside the skin to stabilize the bone as it heals.
   • Bone Grafting: Used when there is a bone loss. Bone from another part of the body or a donor is grafted to the fracture site to aid in healing.

3. Rehabilitation:

   • Physical Therapy: Exercises to restore movement, strength, and function. Therapy usually begins after initial healing and immobilization.
   • Occupational Therapy: Helps patients regain the ability to perform daily activities and adapt to any long-term limitations.

Special Considerations:

• Children: Growth plates in children require special attention to avoid future growth problems.
• Elderly: Osteoporosis or other health conditions in older adults can complicate fracture healing and require additional care.