A broken bone occurs when the bone is subjected to more pressure than it can absorb. This is an injury that frequently happens to people who play sports or who are in a car accident.
There are several classifications of bone fractures according to the severity of the break and its location. When it comes to properly diagnosing and treating a broken bone, imaging tests are usually needed – such as an X-ray – and an orthopedic doctor is best for quick treatment of this musculoskeletal injury.
Let’s talk about what’s involved in the recovery process of a bone fracture and who you can talk to about maintaining musculoskeletal health and wellness.
Bone Fracture Treatment
Once your injury has been diagnosed as a broken bone by a physician, your treatment may just require immobilization in a cast for a number of weeks; if the break was severe or complex, you may need surgery to realign the bone fragments so that they heal properly.
Be sure to keep your cast dry at all times – your doctor will give you specific instructions for bathing. The cast or splint will eventually need to be removed, and the doctor will schedule its removal.
Rest, Ice, and Elevation for a Broken Bone
Rest is integral to a complete recovery. Get plenty of sleep, try to prop up the injured arm or leg on a pillow (elevate the area), and apply an ice pack on the area a few times per day.
Using Crutches, Canes, or Walkers
You will be prescribed assistive devices to help you move with ease and to make your recovery easier. Rest is important, but so is physical activity. If your broken bone is in your leg, you will be asked to use a walker, cane, or crutches to help you walk while you heal.
Physical therapy is part of any bone fracture recovery. Depending on where the fracture is located, it is recommended that you wiggle your toes or fingers on the injured limb in order to promote blood circulation. Perform your physical therapy exercises to boost blood flow, prevent joint stiffness, and help with healing and pain relief.
Pain Management
Managing and minimizing pain is an important aspect of recovering from a broken bone. Your doctor may prescribe pain-relieving medication, such as anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants. Take them as directed, and do not take them when you are no longer in pain.
However, if you were given antibiotics, take them on time and take them all. You need to take the full course in order for the antibiotic to work, because the medicine is designed to fully fight the infection even when you think it’s over.
Fracture Treatment in North Dakota
At The Bone & Joint Center, our experienced orthopedic surgeons are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of bone fractures. We provide care for all stages of treatment and rehabilitation, and we offer physical therapy, hand therapy, and occupational therapy services.
The Bone & Joint Center has convenient locations across North Dakota. To request an appointment, call our friendly team today at (800) 424-2663 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you get back to your active lifestyle!
