What is a fracture?
Each of your bones is made of amazingly resilient living tissue, unless they’re pushed past the point where they can maintain their structural integrity. In these cases, your bones give way and break.
When it comes to fractures, there are several different types, including:
- Stable fracture where the bones are still largely in place
- Open, compound fracture where the bone breaks through your skin
- Transverse fracture, which is a horizontal break
- Oblique fracture where your bone breaks at different angles
- Comminuted fracture, which is when your bone shatters into three or more pieces
What should I do if I think I have a fracture?
Any time you sustain an injury, you should turn to the RICE method as soon as possible:
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression
- Elevation
If the swelling doesn’t abate and your injury is still painful after 24 hours, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with Dr. Parsa so she can take a closer look.
Please note that if you have an open fracture, you should seek medical help immediately, or if the pain and swelling are severe, you should have Dr. Parsa take a look sooner than later.
How is a fracture diagnosed?
During your appointment with Dr. Parsa, she performs a physical exam and reviews your symptoms. She typically orders an X-ray, which is the best frontline diagnostic tool for most fractures.
If your X-ray is inconclusive, Dr. Parsa may turn to more advanced diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI, which can detect smaller, hidden fractures that may not show up on an X-ray.
How are fractures treated?
Every fracture is different, which means that Dr. Parsa tailors your treatment based on the location of your fracture and the severity of the break.
Dr. Parsa’s primary goal in treating your fracture is to immobilize the bones so they can heal together properly. To do this, she turns to:
- Casting
- Splints
- Slings
- Boots
- Walking aids like crutches
Some fractures can’t benefit from a traditional cast or splint, so you’ll need to follow Dr. Parsa’s instructions carefully about reducing inflammation and the pressure you place on the injured area.
If you’ve sustained a severe or compound fracture, Dr. Parsa may perform surgery to hold your bone together so it heals correctly.
For expert fracture care, call Parsa Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Institute or use online booking to schedule a visit.
