Introduction The term fracture means a break in a bone. A bone can break due to a fall, vehicle accident, impact or injury. It is common in athletes who participate in high-speed sports such as football, rugby, and soccer. Stress fractures (metatarsal stress fractures) are caused by repeated use of force. Causes Fractures can occur in normal bones or in bones weakened by disease such as cancer, cysts or osteoporosis. Broken bones can cause pain for a number of reasons: Nerve endings around a bone send pain signals to the brain when it breaks. Bone breaks cause bleeding, and bleeding and swelling (edema) can cause pain. When a fracture occurs, nearby muscles contract to hold the broken bone and its fragments together. These contractions can cause pain. Symptoms The most common symptom of a fracture is pain and it starts immediately after the bone breaks. The pain usually subsides within 12 to 24 hours. If the pain continues to increase even after this, then it should be considered compartment syndrome. Swelling usually starts appearing with the fracture or some time after it, which continues to increase for some time. The swelling will start to subside within 12 to 24 hours. In case of fracture in children, there may be no swelling, which can make it difficult to identify the fracture. If the child is complaining of a lot of pain or is in acute pain or suffering, it is better to take him to the doctor as soon as possible. Persistent or chronic pain can occur in these conditions Infection Incorrect plaster application (eg applying too tight or loose) Poorly aligned fracture In some people, other symptoms, such as bone weakness, ecchymosis, abnormality or reduction in movement, deformity and crepitation may also be found.
Investigation and diagnosis
Fractures can be diagnosed clinically. They are easy to identify in patients with obvious deformity, but sometimes they are not easily recognized. X-rays: X-rays can determine the location and type of fracture. X-rays are normal if the fracture is small, but may be contraindicated in cases of severe osteoporosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans: MRI scans are used for patients who have normal X-rays but still suspect a fracture. If an MRI scan is not possible, a CT scan may be done. Treatment Fractures may require splinting, a cast, or surgery. This can reduce pain significantly. Acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, may be used for quick pain relief. Some studies suggest that these drugs interfere with bone healing. Resting and elevating the broken limb (above the heart) for the first two days is often enough to reduce pain. Home remedies If a fracture is suspected, see a doctor as soon as possible. Before you reach a doctor, it is important to maintain rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the fracture. These measures should reduce pain. Rest reduces pain, prevents further damage, and after splinting or applying a cast, rest helps the bone heal faster. Ice and compresses reduce swelling and pain. Elevating the broken limb above the level of the heart is often enough to reduce pain and swelling. Simple pain relievers such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen should be taken to relieve pain. Alternative medicine: Massage therapy, relaxation techniques, hypnosis, pranayama (breathing exercises) etc. help in reducing pain and discomfort. Massage helps in reducing pain and discomfort of the soft tissues around the fracture.
