After an injury, it’s impossible to rule out the possibility of a broken bone without X-ray images. Diagnosis is especially complicated because broken bones may still be functional, although they will hurt. The safest course of action is to have serious injuries evaluated by a doctor, so you can receive bone fracture treatment as quickly as possible, alleviate symptoms, and position the bone to heal correctly. Learn more about how to assess your condition if you suspect a broken bone below, and how to determine when you need a doctor.
Common Signs of a Broken Bone
If the injury is tender and has bruising or swelling, the bone could be fractured (broken). Nondisplaced fractures describe breaks in the bone that do not involve significant movement of the bone fragment positions from their normal alignment. Displaced fractures occur when the broken bone ends move out of their normal position. In some cases, you might be able to see some deformity in the bone. In a compound fracture, there’s an open wound where the bone might be visible. Dislocations change the natural alignment in a joint and can render it immobile. Sometimes, nearby bones break when a joint is dislocated, and the tendons around the joint might tear. Surgery may be needed to restore mobility and function.
One type of severe fracture is a comminuted fracture, which means the bone breaks into several pieces. When this happens, you might be able to detect a slight gravel-like texture beneath the skin called crepitus. Another serious fracture is an intraarticular fracture. This occurs when the fracture occurs at the end of a bone and involves the joint. It can lead to post-traumatic arthritis even if the fracture is appropriately treated.
When You Should Go to an Orthopedic Doctor
Orthopedic doctors provide bone fracture treatment and are usually available by appointment. With most health insurance policies, it’s less expensive to go to an individual doctor instead of an emergency room. However, if you notice deformity of a joint or bone, have an open wound, visible bones, immobility, intense pain, paleness of the limb, or numbness or tingling, you should go to a hospital for emergency care.
Nondisplaced fractures often require immobilization so that they can heal properly. Displaced fractures need to be reduced (put back into their normal position) to restore appropriate alignment. Displaced, comminuted and intraarticular fractures may require surgery and internal fixation with screws, plates, rods or other fixation devices.
If you’re not sure what to do, call an orthopedic office. Most can determine over the phone if you need emergency care in a hospital or can come into the office for evaluation.
If you live in Passaic, Bergen, or Morris County and need immediate help for a bone that might be broken, contact the compassionate team at Advanced Orthopaedic Associates. Located in Wayne, NJ, this practice offers bone fracture treatments and comprehensive care for dislocated and injured joints. Dr. Cherise M. Dyal is Board-certified and provides non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments, in addition to therapeutic injections and rehabilitative counsel. Call (973) 839-5700 to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.
