Does it sound like a fracture?

If you suspect you have sustained a bone fracture due to an injury or accident, there are certain steps you should take to ensure proper diagnosis and management. 

 

First and foremost, seek medical attention promptly. Delaying treatment of a broken bone can cause complications and hamper healing. If possible, attempt to gently support the injured area to limit movement and further damage while waiting for help. Try not to walk on a fractured leg or move an injured arm more than necessary. 

 

Medical professionals will likely begin by performing a physical exam to ascertain the location and severity of the fracture based on symptoms like swelling, pain, deformity and loss of function. Imaging tests like x-rays, CT scans or MRIs will then likely be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and determine the precise fracture type. 

 

Case 1: I just had a severe fall from the stairs. Did I get a bone fracture?

The signs and symptoms of fractures vary according to the involved bone and the severity of the injury. Common indications of a possible fracture include bruising, pain or swelling at the injury site, and a bump deformity or abnormal bone angles. Another hallmark is the inability to use or bear weight on the affected digit, limb or joint. Other potential symptoms encompass:

• Grating or popping sounds when moving the injured area
• Numbness or weakness in the limb below a fracture in the upper limb or spine
• Loss of range of motion or mobility near the break
• Shooting or tingling pain that worsens with activity
• Shock in cases of severe fractures involving big bones like the femur

In compound or open fractures that tear the skin, bleeding may also occur. 

 

Many patients instinctively hold, splint or cease using an injured part if they suspect a fracture. If you suspect having a bone fracture, get a proper evaluation by a doctor or therapist immediately to determine the break's nature, displacement and stability to guide management and prevent complications.

 

Case 2: I experienced constant pain from training but did not encounter any accidents. Is it possible that I have a bone fracture?

Indeed, stress fracture (also "hairline fracture") is quite a common overuse injury. Stress fractures are micro-cracks that develop in bones, typically forming due to repetitive forces over time. They often stem from overuse, like frequently jumping, running long distances, or doing other high-impact activities. Stress fractures can additionally arise from routine use of bones weakened by conditions like osteoporosis.

 

Stress fractures are most prevalent in the weight-bearing regions of the lower leg and foot. Athletes engaged in track and field and individuals carrying heavy packs over long distances have the highest risk, though, in principle, anyone can experience a stress fracture. Even beginning a new exercise routine can induce stress fractures if you start doing too much too soon before your bones are conditioned to handle the activity. The repeated forces or impacts gradually damage the bone faster than it can heal itself, ultimately leading to a fracture if the underlying cause isn't addressed.

 

Stress fractures may be harder to notice and easily overlooked as fatigue; check with a doctor or therapist if you experience constant pain during exercise.