Fractures Specialist

What are the signs of a fracture?

The most common signs of a bone fracture are pain, swelling, and deformity. However, as fractures range in severity, you may experience other symptoms. 

For example, you might not notice a stress fracture in your foot right away. Over time, the injury could cause tenderness, swelling, and stiffness. Your pain may become more severe when you put weight on the injured foot. 

A more severe fracture could cause a snapping or grinding sound or sensation. It could cause immediate and severe pain, with rapid swelling and bruising. A compound fracture may even force part of the broken bone through your skin.

What should I do if I break a bone?

Fractures require medical attention. If you have a severe injury, don’t try to realign the bone yourself, as this could increase the damage. Instead, apply ice packs and use a splint or padding to immobilize the injury. Call Bluewater Orthopedics immediately to schedule an appointment.

Even minor fractures need medical attention. If you continue to use a body part with a stress fracture, the pressure can make the fracture worse and lead to complications requiring more advanced treatments.

How are fractures diagnosed?

At Bluewater Orthopedics, the team provides thorough exams and tests to diagnose bone fractures. They review your symptoms, medical history, and the details of what you were doing when you injured yourself. 

Your orthopedist examines your injury, gently feeling for deformity or other palpable signs of a fracture. They may also order X-rays to confirm a broken bone and evaluate the severity of the fracture. 

How are fractures treated?

The most common treatment for a fracture is immobilization with a plaster cast. This keeps the bone in the proper position while it heals. Depending on the severity of your injury, your physician may provide a functional cast or brace that allows some movement of the nearby joints.

Most severe fractures require more advanced treatment, such as traction to realign your bone with a steady pulling force. 

Your orthopedist may also recommend surgery to realign your fractured bone and secure the ends together. Depending on your needs, they may use internal or external pins to stabilize the bone. 

Call Bluewater Orthopedics today or make an appointment online if you think you’ve broken a bone and need expert medical attention.