The term fracture refers to a partial or complete break of a bone. This can be a simple crack or clean break or a more complex issue where the bone is forced outwards, piercing through the skin. A fracture such as this is called a compound or open fracture.
Fractures can occur at any time, even in healthy individuals. Most breaks or cracks in bones result from trauma caused by accidents. However, some diseases of the bones and joints can increase the likelihood of fractures, even after only minor accidents.
There are also other types of fractures apart from open fractures. These include a stable fracture which is a simple break where the affected broken bone ends remain aligned.
A transverse fracture refers to a fracture line that is horizontal rather than vertical, and a break with an angled structure is better known as a transverse fracture. Those who suffer a shattered bone break are described as having a comminuted fracture.
There are several symptoms caused by bone fractures apart from the obvious intense pain that accompanies them. Inflammation is also common, as is tenderness and the inability to easily move the part of the body affected. Bruising can often develop after a bone break, as can a deformity in a limb if the break is severe.
Most fractures are caused by accidents such as falls or car accidents where intense forces are placed on the bones and joints from sudden impacts.
Anyone can be involved in an accident that leads to a bone fracture or even multiple fractures. However, there are those who are at greater risk than others. These include individuals who suffer from bone and joint disorders such as osteoporosis which weakens the bones and makes them more susceptible to breaks.
Occupation can place certain individuals at an increased risk of suffering bone breaks, especially those involved in contact sports such as football. Jockeys, where falls off horses can occur at great speed, often suffer fractures throughout their careers too.
A physical examination, along with a description of symptoms, is the first part of diagnosing fractures. If a bone break is suspected, then the next step is for the patient to undergo imaging testing such as X-rays and scans.
These can visually confirm a fracture and the type of break that has occurred. This can help determine the best and most effective course of treatment needed to help the fracture heal.
If a simple break has occurred and the bones remain aligned, then a splint or cast can be applied to the affected bone. This can hold the bone in position for six to eight weeks allowing the break to heal.
A closed reduction may be performed for non-aligned breaks, and this involves pushing the broken bones together so that the break lines meet.
Shattered bones and open fractures are treated with surgery under a general anaesthetic. Often rods, plates, and screws are needed to help hold the bone fragments together to allow for effective healing to take place.
It isn’t easy to prevent accidents but protective body gear such as shin pads or body armour can help to decrease the chances of bone breaks occurring in those involved in dangerous sports.
For those with diseases that weaken bones, drug treatments can help strengthen them, making fractures less likely. However, we can all strengthen our bones by exercising, eating healthily, and ensuring that we have adequate levels of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and other essential bone health nutrients in our diets.