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Posts tagged broken bones
Fracture Forum- Part 1 of 5
0785 days
A broken bone can be a very painful experience and one that a majority of people have gone through in their lives. Every broken bone is not the same however and are treated differently. There are many different types of broken bones all with their own unique characteristics. In the next few postings, we will take a look at a few of the different types of fractures and how they are treated.
A simple or closed fracture is quite common and probably the easiest to treat. A simple fracture is a break in the bone that does not pierce the skin. Some symptoms of a simple fracture can include severe pain, bruising, swelling, inability to bear weight or numbness. Most people throughout their lives will suffer from one or two bone fractures – a majority being simple fractures.
Simple Fracture
Most simple fractures are treated with a cast. X-rays are taken and the bones are realigned. A mixture of plaster of paris is made then shaped and molded around the fracture to immobilize the bone. In many cases, the cast can be removed after a few weeks. More severe simple fractures like in the leg can take longer to heal. Normal activity cannot be resumed right away; the bone must be treated gently for at least a month after cast removal.
The other major type of fracture is an open or compound fracture – this is when the broken bone pierces the skin. Compound fractures require more immediate and serious treatment because of the open wound. These fractures typically require surgery to repair and must be thoroughly cleaned as there is a higher risk for infection. Many times compound fractures can still be treated with casting. More serious fractures require pins and screws to stabilize the bones in order to heal.
Compound Fracture
Broken Bones and Old Man Winter
0881 days
There is no doubt that this winter has been more harsh than normal all across the US. Early snowstorms, ice and blistering cold temperatures have pounded the country over the past few weeks. With all the snow and ice come a lot of broken bones. Emergency rooms always see a huge increase in the number of patients coming through their doors with some type of broken bone due to the dangerous weather.
When the roads and sidewalks are covered with snow, it is very difficult to know what you are stepping into, causing many people to fall and injure themselves. Some of the fractures caused by slips even result in surgery and/or nails and screws to repair the fracture. Taking a few precautionary steps can help reduce your chances of ending up in the ER with a broken bone.
First, invest in a good snow shovel to help make clearing the snow from your walkways easier. Having a good, ergonomic snow shovel will save you time and will save your back! If you have to work less at moving the snow, there is less chance you will fall while shoveling as well. Also remember that when you come back inside from shoveling, your feet will be very wet and slick. Many people suffer their fall after coming inside! Put down a mat inside your door to take off your shoes as you come in to avoid leaving a dangerous slip and slide in your wake as you walk through your home.
Another important tip is to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary! If you can, wait until the roads have been plowed and salt or sand has been applied to reduce freezing. So many terrible accidents are caused by people driving on unsafe roads during and after a snowstorm. If you can stay inside – DO IT!
All of these simple things can help ensure that you aren’t visiting a doctor with a broken arm or leg during these winter months. Besides, isn’t it much more fun to be out in the snow building a snowman or sledding? Absolutely!
