Medically Reviewed by Lawrence Colvin, PA-C
Bone fractures, also known as broken bones, affect millions of people across the country every year. From sports injuries to accidental falls, people break bones in a variety of ways. A fracture may also be the result of a medical condition such as osteoporosis and some cancers, which weaken the bones. Although bones are quite strong and resilient to significant amounts of impact, they have their limits too.Â
Types of Bone Breaks
There are several different ways in which a bone can fracture which will determine the type of fracture you have. The most common types of bone breaks include:Â
- Closed or open fractures: Closed fractures do not break through the skin, yet open fractures do.
- Incomplete fractures: The break doesn’t go all the way through the bone.
- Complete fractures: The break goes completely through the bone, breaking into two pieces.Â
- Displaced fractures: The broken pieces of the bone do not stay intact and a gap forms. Surgery is usually required.
- Stress fractures: The bone gets a crack in it, which can sometimes be hard to detect with imaging tools.Â
What Happens When a Bone Breaks?
Collagen and calcium phosphate are materials packed together to form a bone and give it strength. They allow our bones to take on a certain amount of weight without any issues. However, when too much force is put on a bone, it can potentially break. The likelihood of a bone fracture is highly dependent on a person’s age and overall health. As we age, our bones lose density, which means there is less collagen and calcium phosphate to support them. Some common symptoms to look out for if you think you’ve broken a bone include:
- Severe pain
- Swelling
- Difficulty using the limb
- Noticeable and abnormal bump, bend or twist
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or suspect that you’ve broken a bone, contact your healthcare provider immediately or visit one of our urgent care centers at Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic. No need to schedule an appointment – just walk in and we will provide you with prompt, comprehensive assistance.
Diagnosing a Broken Bone
In order to diagnose a broken bone, your doctor will first perform a physical examination. If further evaluation is required, you will likely undergo one or more imaging tests. These tests may include:
- X-rays
- Bone scan
- CT scan
- MRI
How to Treat a Broken Bone
Your doctor will most likely use a cast or splint to treat a broken bone. Casts wrap completely around the break with a hard protective cover, while splints only protect one side of the bone. Smaller bones such as fingers and toes don’t require a cast to heal. Both types of support keep the bone immobile and straighten it while the bone grows back together. Surgery may be necessary for some breaks, using stainless-steel screws, plates and fixators, or frames.Â
Recovery From a Broken Bone
Recovery time for a broken bone varies from person to person and is highly dependent on the location, type, and severity of the break. On average, it takes about six to eight weeks for a broken bone to fully heal. Also, keep in mind that as you age, you tend to heal more slowly.Â
Recovery from a broken bone may require physical therapy. If your doctor prescribes such treatment, several physical therapy locations in the Raleigh area for you to choose from.
Schedule an Appointment with Raleigh Orthopaedic
If you’re dealing with pain, discomfort, or an injury, don’t wait to get the care you need. Our expert team at Raleigh Orthopaedic is here to help you feel better, move better, and get back to doing what you love. Schedule an appointment online or call us at 919-781-5600 to be seen—often within 48 hours. For immediate care, we offer walk-in orthopedic urgent care services. Click here for hours and locations.
Disclaimer:Â The information on this site is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or medical judgment. Always consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition or treatment.