What is the difference between a fracture and a broken bone. How are various types of bone injuries classified. What treatment options are available for different fractures. How can you recognize the signs of a bone fracture.

The Truth About Fractures and Broken Bones

Many people wonder about the distinction between a fractured arm and a broken arm. The reality is that these terms refer to the same condition. A fracture is simply the medical term for a break in a bone. Whether you hear “fracture” or “broken bone,” the meaning is identical.

Bone fractures can occur in various ways and with different levels of severity. Some may be minor hairline cracks, while others can involve the bone splitting into multiple pieces or even protruding through the skin. Understanding the nature of fractures is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Common Types of Bone Fractures Explained

Bone fractures are classified based on their characteristics and severity. Here are some of the most common types:

• Closed fractures: The bone is broken but does not pierce the skin
• Open (compound) fractures: The broken bone penetrates through the skin
• Displaced fractures: The bone fragments have moved out of alignment
• Non-displaced fractures: The bone pieces remain aligned despite the break
• Transverse fractures: The break is horizontal across the bone
• Oblique fractures: The break occurs at an angle through the bone
• Comminuted fractures: The bone shatters into three or more pieces
• Greenstick fractures: Commonly seen in children, where the bone bends and cracks without fully breaking

Each type of fracture requires a specific approach to treatment, depending on its severity and location.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of a Bone Fracture

Identifying a bone fracture promptly is essential for proper treatment. Common indicators of a fracture include:

• Intense pain in the affected area
• Swelling and bruising around the injury site
• Difficulty moving or using the injured limb
• Visible deformity or misalignment of the limb
• A grinding or grating sensation when attempting to move the injured area
• In severe cases, bone protruding through the skin

If you suspect a bone fracture, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination and order necessary imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

Diagnostic Techniques for Identifying Bone Fractures

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective fracture treatment. Medical professionals use various diagnostic tools to assess bone injuries:

X-rays

X-rays are the most common and widely used method for diagnosing fractures. They provide clear images of bone structures, allowing doctors to identify breaks and assess their severity.

CT Scans

Computed tomography (CT) scans offer more detailed images of complex fractures, especially in areas with multiple bone structures like the wrist or ankle.

MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is particularly useful for detecting stress fractures or injuries to the surrounding soft tissues.

Bone Scans

These can help identify fractures that may not be visible on regular X-rays, especially in cases of suspected stress fractures.

The choice of diagnostic technique depends on the suspected type and location of the fracture, as well as the patient’s overall health condition.

Treatment Options for Different Types of Fractures

The treatment approach for a bone fracture varies depending on its type, location, and severity. Here are some common treatment options:

Immobilization

Many fractures can be treated by keeping the affected bone or joint still with a brace, splint, or cast. This allows the bone to heal naturally without further displacement.

Closed Reduction

In cases where the bone fragments have moved out of alignment, a closed reduction procedure may be necessary. This involves manipulating the broken pieces back into proper alignment, usually followed by casting to maintain the correct position.

Percutaneous Pinning

Some fractures require additional support to keep the bone fragments in place. Percutaneous pinning involves inserting pins through the skin to secure the bone fragments. These pins are typically removed once the fracture has healed.

Open Reduction with Internal Fixation (ORIF)

For more severe fractures, surgery may be required. ORIF involves making an incision to access the fracture site, realigning the bone fragments, and securing them with screws, plates, or other hardware.

The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the patient’s age, overall health, and the specific characteristics of the fracture.

The Healing Process: What to Expect After a Bone Fracture

Understanding the healing process can help patients manage their expectations and follow their treatment plan effectively. The bone healing process typically involves several stages:

1. Inflammation: Immediately after the injury, the body initiates an inflammatory response to protect the area and begin the healing process.
2. Soft callus formation: Within a few weeks, new bone cells start to form a soft callus around the fracture site.
3. Hard callus formation: The soft callus gradually transforms into a harder, more stable structure.
4. Bone remodeling: Over several months, the healed bone is reshaped and strengthened to its original structure.

The duration of each stage can vary depending on the severity of the fracture, the patient’s age, and overall health. It’s crucial to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions regarding activity levels, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.

Preventing Bone Fractures: Strategies for Maintaining Bone Health

While not all fractures can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone strength
• Engage in regular weight-bearing exercises to improve bone density
• Practice proper form and use appropriate safety equipment during physical activities
• Ensure your home is free of tripping hazards to prevent falls
• Get regular check-ups and bone density screenings, especially if you’re at higher risk for osteoporosis

By taking these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing a bone fracture.

Complications and Long-Term Effects of Bone Fractures

While most fractures heal without significant issues, some patients may experience complications or long-term effects. These can include:

• Chronic pain or stiffness in the affected area
• Reduced range of motion or flexibility
• Arthritis developing in joints near the fracture site
• Malunion (improper healing of the bone)
• Nonunion (failure of the bone to heal completely)
• Infection, especially in cases of open fractures

Early intervention and proper follow-up care can help minimize the risk of these complications. If you experience persistent pain or limited function after a fracture has reportedly healed, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Special Considerations for Pediatric and Geriatric Fractures

Bone fractures in children and older adults require special attention due to the unique characteristics of their skeletal systems.

Pediatric Fractures

Children’s bones are more flexible and have a greater capacity for healing. This can lead to unique fracture patterns, such as:

• Greenstick fractures: Incomplete breaks where the bone bends and cracks
• Buckle fractures: Compression injuries where one side of the bone buckles
• Growth plate fractures: Injuries affecting the areas of growing tissue near the ends of long bones

Treatment for pediatric fractures often focuses on minimizing disruption to bone growth while ensuring proper healing.

Geriatric Fractures

Older adults are at higher risk for fractures due to decreased bone density and increased fall risk. Common concerns include:

• Hip fractures
• Vertebral compression fractures
• Wrist fractures (Colles fractures)

Treatment for geriatric fractures often involves a multidisciplinary approach, addressing not only the fracture itself but also underlying health conditions and rehabilitation needs.

Advances in Fracture Treatment: New Technologies and Approaches

The field of orthopedics continues to evolve, bringing new technologies and techniques to fracture treatment. Some recent advancements include:

• 3D-printed casts: Custom-fit, lightweight alternatives to traditional plaster casts
• Bone stimulators: Devices that use ultrasound or electrical stimulation to promote bone healing
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques: Allowing for smaller incisions and faster recovery times
• Biodegradable implants: Materials that dissolve over time, eliminating the need for removal surgery
• Virtual reality rehabilitation: Engaging and effective methods for physical therapy during recovery

These innovations aim to improve patient comfort, accelerate healing, and enhance overall outcomes in fracture treatment.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Fracture Recovery

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process following a bone fracture. The goals of physical therapy include:

• Restoring range of motion and flexibility to the affected area
• Strengthening muscles that may have weakened during immobilization
• Improving coordination and balance to prevent future falls
• Managing pain and swelling through various techniques
• Educating patients on proper body mechanics and injury prevention

A tailored physical therapy program can significantly enhance recovery and help patients return to their normal activities more quickly and safely.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Factors in Fracture Healing

Proper nutrition and lifestyle choices can significantly impact the body’s ability to heal from a fracture. Key factors include:

Nutritional Support

• Calcium: Essential for bone formation and strength
• Vitamin D: Aids in calcium absorption and bone mineralization
• Protein: Necessary for tissue repair and new bone formation
• Vitamin C: Important for collagen production in bone healing

Lifestyle Considerations

• Avoiding smoking: Nicotine can impair bone healing
• Limiting alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can interfere with bone formation
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity can put extra stress on healing bones
• Getting adequate sleep: Rest is crucial for the body’s healing processes

By focusing on these nutritional and lifestyle factors, patients can support their body’s natural healing processes and potentially speed up their recovery from a fracture.

When to Seek Emergency Care for a Suspected Fracture

While not all fractures require immediate emergency care, certain situations warrant urgent medical attention. Seek emergency care if:

• There is an open wound associated with the suspected fracture
• The limb appears deformed or is positioned unnaturally
• There is severe pain, swelling, or numbness
• The injured area is cold, pale, or bluish in color
• You suspect a fracture in the head, neck, or back
• The person is unresponsive or having difficulty breathing

In these cases, it’s crucial to call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Proper immobilization and prompt medical attention can prevent further injury and improve outcomes.

The Psychological Impact of Bone Fractures

The physical aspects of a bone fracture are often the primary focus, but the psychological impact can be significant and should not be overlooked. Patients may experience:

• Anxiety about the injury and recovery process
• Depression related to limited mobility and independence
• Fear of re-injury or future falls
• Frustration with the slow pace of recovery
• Body image concerns, especially with visible injuries or surgical scars

Healthcare providers should address these psychological aspects as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Support groups, counseling, and patient education can all play important roles in helping individuals cope with the emotional challenges of recovering from a fracture.

Fracture Care in Different Healthcare Settings

The management of bone fractures can vary depending on the healthcare setting. Understanding these differences can help patients navigate their care more effectively:

Emergency Room

In the ER, the focus is on immediate stabilization, pain management, and initial diagnosis. Patients may receive temporary splints or casts before being referred for follow-up care.

Orthopedic Clinic

Specialized orthopedic care provides comprehensive fracture management, including definitive treatment plans, surgical interventions if needed, and long-term follow-up.

Primary Care

Primary care physicians may manage minor fractures or provide ongoing care and coordination for more complex cases in collaboration with specialists.

Rehabilitation Centers

These facilities offer intensive physical therapy and occupational therapy services to help patients regain function and independence following a fracture.

Effective communication between these different care settings is crucial for ensuring continuity of care and optimal outcomes for patients with bone fractures.

What Is the Difference Between a Fracture and a Broken Bone? By Jesse Morse-Brady, FNP-BC

A Fracture = A Broken Bone

The quick answer to this question is that they are the same! A “fracture” refers to a “break” in the bone, which can take many forms. There are numerous different types of fractures, with various different treatments. Some bone injuries are able to heal on their own, some require casting or splinting, and some even require surgery.

Common Types of Fractures

Closed vs. Open Fractures: A “closed fracture” is one in which the bone has broken but has not penetrated the skin.  An “open fracture” involves a portion of the broken bone being exposed outside of the skin.  Open fractures are much less common than closed fractures, and often involve surgical treatment to realign the broken pieces of bone and clean the wound to reduce the risk of infection.

Displaced vs. Non-Displaced Fractures: A “displaced fracture” is one in which the bone has broken and the pieces of bone have moved in relation to one another.  This may require treatment to realign the broken pieces, based upon how much movement has occurred.  A “non-displaced fracture” is one in which the bone has broken, but the pieces have not moved.  Many people may have heard of this referred to as a “hairline fracture.”  Non-displaced fractures can often be treated by keeping the affected area immobilized with a splint or brace, but sometimes require further treatment.

Types of Fracture Treatment

Immobilization: Many fractures are able to be treated by keeping the affected bone or joint still with a brace, splint, or cast while the bone heals.

Closed Reduction: If the broken pieces of bone have moved in a way that is not conducive to healing, they can sometimes be put back into place with a “closed reduction” procedure.   This involves manipulating the broken pieces of bone back into proper alignment, and usually applying a cast to keep the fracture properly “lined up.”

Percutaneous Pinning: Some fractures cause bone pieces to move into configurations that cannot easily stay in place if they are lined up.  If this should occur, a surgeon may recommend “pinning” them back into place using surgical instruments.  A pinning procedure utilizes pins that are placed through the skin to secure the bone fragments in place. The pins are removed once the fracture has healed.

Open Reduction with Internal Fixation: For fractures in which the bone pieces have moved significantly, surgery is sometimes required.  When this occurs, an incision is made in the skin near the fracture site, and the pieces are placed back together before being “fixed” in place with screws, surgical plates, or other materials.

If You or Someone You Know Has a Fracture

Fremont Orthopaedics is here to help patients through the course of fracture care, from the time of injury until the fracture is healed.   For any additional questions or to schedule an appointment with one of our providers, call (307) 332-9720.

This document contains general guidelines and is not a substitute to your provider’s instructions or an alternative to seeking appropriate medical care or follow-up appointments. For questions or concerns, seek professional medical attention. For medical emergencies, call 911.

Bone Break vs. Fracture | Sports-health

It may come as a surprise, but a broken bone and a fractured bone are the same thing. A fracture occurs when an outside force is too great for a bone to handle. Although generally rigid, bones can weaken over time and become more susceptible to fracturing.

Fractures may occur lengthwise, crosswise, or in multiple pieces. Similarly, the underlying causes of bone breaks varies.

This page will describe different types of fractures, how they occur, and how they are treated.

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Different Types of Bone Fractures

Fractures are classified by how the bone breaks. The most common fractures are:

The most common fractures are illustrated here along the femur. Fractures may occur lengthwise, crosswise and sometimes in multiple pieces.

• Compound (open) fracture. The bone may pierce the skin at the time of the fracture.
• Transverse fracture. When the bone breaks in a horizontal line.
• Oblique fracture. When the bone has a diagonal or angled break.
• Comminuted fracture. This means the bone has been shattered into 3 or more pieces.
• Greenstick fracture. When the bone bends and cracks but does not fully break. This is commonly seen in children because their bones are softer and more flexible than adults.

A fracture may be further classified by whether or not the broken pieces of bone are aligned:

• Non-displaced fracture. When the broken parts of the bone are aligned.
• Displaced fracture. When the broken parts of the bone are not aligned.

In addition, a fracture may be labeled stable or unstable. These clinical terms refer to whether the bone pieces can be easily disturbed and moved out of place. When a fracture is labeled unstable, it means that the two pieces of bone that are broken will not be able to withstand normal weight-bearing or natural physiologic forces.

The type and severity of a fracture will influence the treatment plan.

In This Article:

• Bone Break vs. Fracture

• Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment for Bone Fractures

What Causes a Bone Fracture?

A bone fracture typically occurs for one of 3 reasons.

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A fracture can occur for more than one reason (for example, weakened bone and outside force).

Dr. Emmanuel Konstantakos is an orthopedic surgeon with MercyHealth Orthopedic Specialists, where he specializes in sports medicine, arthroscopic surgery, and general orthopedics. Dr. Konstantakos has authored numerous research articles published in academic journals.

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What to do if you break your arm? – useful articles from specialists

Neither adults nor children are immune from bruises, abrasions, dislocations and even fractures. The causes of injury can be excessive physical exertion, an accidental fall, a blow with a heavy object, an accident, and so on. If trouble has happened to you or your loved ones, there is a suspicion of a fracture, the first step is to determine the severity of the injury. You can’t do without the help of the medical staff. Any self-diagnosis is fraught with serious consequences.

Depending on the type of damage to the hand, there are two types of fracture:

• Open – there is a rupture of tissues, skin, there is bleeding.
• Closed – no bleeding, the skin remains intact.

When the integrity of one bone is broken, we are dealing with an isolated fracture. If there is a fracture of several bones, then we are talking about a multiple fracture.

Depending on the complexity of the injury, the absence or presence of displacement, the signs of a fracture of the hand may vary significantly. However, the presence of a fracture can be determined by specific signs.

Among its main clinical manifestations are:

• severe pain;
• hemorrhage;
• swelling, edema at the site of injury;
• crunching of bone fragments;
• deformation of the injured area;
• excessive mobility of the injured part of the arm or inability to move it;
• fever;
• pale skin;
• nausea, dizziness;
• coldness of the extremity.

If you have the above symptoms, be sure to call an ambulance or go to the nearest emergency room. An x-ray will help clarify the diagnosis. Having studied the picture, the doctor will be able to determine the nature of the injury, the presence of bone fragments, the integrity of the joint.

What should I do if I break my arm?

When an injury is accompanied by bleeding, first aid is needed on the spot. Any delay can lead to terrible results. Therefore, first of all, you should stop the bleeding, and then deal with the fracture. How to do it? Wash the wound with hydrogen peroxide, apply a gauze bandage to the damaged surface. In the presence of severe bleeding, it is imperative to apply a tourniquet (in winter for half an hour, in summer for 2 hours). Important to know: if the blood is brightly colored and flows out intensively, you are dealing with an injury to the arterial vessels. The tourniquet must be applied above the fracture. In the event that the blood is thick and dark, you have a vein injury. A tourniquet is applied below the injured area.

If there is a suspicion of a dislocation, in no case should you try to set it yourself. Such work can only be entrusted to an experienced doctor.

If you decide to transport the victim to the nearest hospital, be sure to follow the rules for transporting a broken limb. We are talking about the correct fixation of the hand, with the help of sticks, fabric, cardboard – everything that can play the role of a tire.

Don’t forget to remove bracelets and rings from your arm, because jewelry interferes with natural circulation, and after swelling of the limbs, they will have to be removed using special tools.

Never do this if someone has a broken arm:

• Do not try to return the injured limb to its normal position.
• Do not transport an injured person without securing the injured arm.
• Do not try to get painkillers to drink or ointments to be applied to the bruised area. A sedative can be given when the victim is in a state of stress, shock.
• Do not splint unless you have an idea of ​​how to do it correctly. Better call an ambulance.
• Don’t be idle! Even in the presence of a slight swelling of the tissues, an x-ray should be taken and a full consultation with a traumatologist should be obtained.

Violating such prohibitions, you run the risk of significantly worsening the condition of the victim.

And most importantly, forget about any self-treatment. Practice shows that the slightest deformation, minimal displacement entails shortening of the arm and other complications.

The subsequent treatment and recovery depend on how professionally first aid is provided for a fractured limb.

How to recognize a broken arm and what to do next

Likbez

Health

May 13, 2021

In a few weeks, the injury will be gone if you take care of yourself.

You can listen to the article. If it’s more convenient for you, turn on the podcast.

What is an arm fracture

An arm fracture is a crack or fracture in any of the three bones that make up the upper limb: the humerus, radius, or ulna.

Image: solar22/Shutterstock

This is a common injury that most often occurs when falling onto an outstretched arm. In most cases, the bone can be successfully restored with a cast or splint. But there are also more serious situations that require surgical intervention.

At the slightest suspicion of a fracture, you should immediately go to the nearest emergency room or emergency room. Don’t waste time. It is important.

How to tell if it’s a broken arm

The arm usually breaks with a characteristic click or crack. Such a soundtrack may be the first sign of a fracture. But there will definitely be others:

• Severe pain, which becomes more noticeable when moving. Because of this, a person cannot use his hand.
• Numbness of the limb.
• Restricted mobility. If you place your hand palm up, it will not be possible to turn it palm down in a normal twisting motion.
• Noticeable swelling in the area of ​​the alleged fracture. Puffiness may not occur immediately, but increase over several hours.
• Bruises, subcutaneous hemorrhages.
• Visible hand deformity. For example, it may be curved in an unnatural way.

To suspect a fracture, it is enough that one or two symptoms occur immediately after a blow or fall.

Why you need to seek help as soon as possible

Fractures heal well if treated as soon as possible. But if you decide to play for time, serious complications can develop. Including deadly ones.

• Stopping bone growth in children. In childhood, the limbs are still lengthened. This happens due to the growth zones, which are located along the edges of each bone. If the fracture has affected this particular area, the lengthening may stop. And this will lead to the fact that by adulthood one arm will become shorter than the other.
• Osteoarthritis. Fractures that affect the joint, years later, can lead to its inflammation – arthritis.
• Stiffness of movement. Incorrectly fused bone often leads to limited mobility of the hand.
• Bone infection. With an open fracture, when the bone breaks through the skin and comes out, it can be attacked by microbes that can cause infection. This is dangerous because it can lead to bone destruction and blood poisoning.
• Damage to nerves or blood vessels. If sharp fragments form on the bone during an injury (this is the so-called comminuted fracture), they can break nearby blood vessels or nerve endings. This can be seen by numbness, swelling and the appearance of hematomas. If you do not quickly see a doctor, the hand may permanently lose mobility.
• Compartmental syndrome. Due to excessive swelling, blood circulation in the arm can also stop. That is, tissues, including muscle and bone, will begin to die. Compartment syndrome usually appears 1–2 days after injury. The beginning of the process can be seen by pain and severe numbness in the affected arm. This disorder is a medical emergency and requires the immediate attention of a surgeon.

How to treat a broken arm

First, you will have an x-ray to find out what condition the bone is in.

If the fracture is confirmed, the surgeon will place a cast or splint on the affected limb. This is important to give the bones a chance to recover. To reduce pain, your doctor will suggest you an analgesic drug and muscle relaxant drugs that relieve muscle spasm.

If the swelling is very large, the arm will be covered with a temporary bandage. A plaster will be applied after a few days, when the swelling subsides.