What is a Fracture? A bone fracture is a break in a bone. Fractures are common. Most people fracture at least one bone during their lifetime. The severity of fractures increase with age. Children's bones are more flexible and less likely to break. Falls or other accidents that do not harm children can cause complete fractures in older adults. Older adults suffer from fractures more than children because their bones are more likely to be brittle. Symptoms of a fracture? The most common symptoms of a fracture are:
What causes a fracture? Fractures occur when a bone can't withstand the physical force exerted on it. Types of Fractures? There are many types of fractures: simple, stress, comminuted, impacted, compound, complete and incomplete.
Treatment Options? To heal properly, the fractured bone must be realigned. The most common realignment procedures are:
After the bone is realigned, medication and rehabilitation will help the recovery process. Medication is used to lessen the pain. Rehabilitation prevents stiffness. Rehabilitation involves light movement of the tissues surrounding the injury. It helps increase blood flow which will aid the healing process. Side effects of the treatments? If the fracture is closed repaired, the bone may not heal properly or it may not function properly. If the fracture is open repaired, infection, bleeding, damage to blood vessels or nerves, and allergic reactions to the anesthesia may occur. How serious is a fracture? The seriousness depends on the age of the individual and location of the fracture. Some fractures only require temporary protection (crutches, splint). Other, more serious fractures require surgery.
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