What are the Symptoms of Bone Fracture?
October 21, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
The symptoms of a bone fracture can vary depending on the location and type of fracture. Common signs and symptoms of a bone fracture may include:
- Pain: Fractures are typically associated with pain at the site of the injury. The intensity of pain can vary, but it is often severe and worsens with movement.
- Swelling: Swelling around the injured area is common and may develop soon after the fracture occurs.
- Deformity: In some cases, a visible deformity or misalignment of the affected bone may be evident.
- Bruising: The skin around the fracture site may become bruised due to blood vessels being damaged during the injury.
- Tenderness: The area around the fracture is likely to be tender to the touch.
- Limited Range of Motion: You may have difficulty moving the injured area or experience loss of function.
- Crepitus: Some fractures produce a grinding or grating sensation or sound when the broken bone ends rub against each other.
- Open Wound: In cases of an open or compound fracture, where the broken bone protrudes through the skin, there will be an open wound at the site of the fracture.
- Numbness or Tingling: Nerves near the fracture site may be affected, leading to numbness, tingling, or a loss of sensation in the area.
- Muscle Spasm: Muscle spasms can occur as a response to the pain and trauma of the injury.
- Loss of Pulse: In rare cases where a fracture affects an artery, there may be a loss of the pulse in the area.
It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect a bone fracture. A healthcare provider can perform diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, to confirm the presence and type of fracture. Treatment for bone fractures typically involves realigning the broken bone (reduction) and immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or other orthopedic devices to allow proper healing. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the fracture with the use of pins, screws, or plates.
Prompt and appropriate care for bone fractures is crucial to ensure proper healing and minimize long-term complications. Failure to address a fracture can lead to malunion (improper alignment during healing), nonunion (failure of the bone to heal), or other complications. If you suspect a fracture, it’s best to err on the side of caution and seek medical evaluation and care.