Any bone in the body can sustain a fracture, typically as a result of a fall or other type of accident. For the patient’s long-term health, it is vital that the fracture is repaired as early as possible. Casting and surgery are the most common treatments for fixing a fracture, as we will explore below.  

Casting

For bones in the arms, legs, wrists, hands, ankles, or feet, casting often forms an essential part of treatment. Casting immobilizes the bone and joint, preventing further stress on the joint and keeping it in place. This allows the bone to heal as fully as possible into its natural position. Casting alone can be used for most simple fractures, in which the bone is broken but still in place.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

Sometimes, fixing a fracture requires surgery. This is the case when the bone is out of its natural place, for example, if it is completely broken into two pieces, or when the bone is broken in several places.

Fracture surgery has two parts: open reduction and internal fixation. During open reduction, the doctor replaces the bone and other structures to their natural positions. During internal fixation, the doctor inserts tools like screws and rods to keep the bone in place. Depending on the nature of the injury, these devices may be left in place permanently, or removed once the bone heals.

After surgery is performed, the bone is typically casted, and most of the recovery period will be similar to the recovery from a fracture that did not require surgery.

Physical Therapy

Fixing a fracture usually requires the joint to be casted for several weeks at a minimum. During this time, the muscles on that limb experience atrophy, which means they become weaker due to lack of use. Flexibility also suffers.  

Physical therapy is used to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the injured body part, and to ensure that the patient resumes mobility while using proper body alignment. In order to make a full recovery, it is important for patients to attend all of their recommended physical therapy sessions. In addition, the physical therapist will likely recommended exercises to be performed at home during and after the treatment period.

Importance of Early Treatment

The importance of prompt treatment for fractures cannot be overstated. Most of the time, it is possible for patients to make a complete recovery even from severe fractures. Recovery will be most full when the problem is addressed as soon as possible after it occurs.

If you have a fracture, Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your treatment. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.