What is fracture care?
Fracture care is a branch of orthopedic medicine that works to diagnose and treat fractures or broken bones. Without fracture care, your bone may heal at an awkward or unusual angle, causing more serious health problems later on.
The type of fracture care you’ll most benefit from depends on several factors, including the severity and location of the fracture, and your overall physical health. Most bones respond to conservative treatments like casting and splint, but others require surgical intervention such as bone fracture repair.
What are the symptoms of a broken bone?
Broken bones present a variety of symptoms. Common telltale signs include:
- Intense pain
- Numbness
- Swelling
- Visible deformity
- Heavy bleeding
In the event of a serious fracture, you might also notice a piece of bone protruding from your skin.
What steps should I take if I break a bone?
If you break a bone, it’s important to stay calm and act as quickly as possible. Dr. Tamai recommends:
- Stopping any bleeding
- Immobilizing the affected joint or limb
- Applying an ice pack to the injury
- Sitting in a comfortable position
As soon as you have access to a phone, you should also call Dr. Tamai and request an appointment right away. Depending on the severity of your injury, he might be able to see you on the same day.
How are fractures diagnosed?
To diagnose a fracture, Dr. Tamai conducts a physical exam, asks you questions about your injury and symptoms, and reviews your medical history. He also orders a series of X-rays to get a closer look at your bones and joints. If necessary, Dr. Tamai might also gently press on areas of your skin to pinpoint swelling or areas of discomfort.
What type of fracture care will I benefit from?
No two fracture care plans are exactly alike. Dr. Tamai tailors treatment based on your individual symptoms and goals. If you suffer a mild or moderate fracture, you might benefit from casting, splinting, or physical therapy. Immobilization promotes your body’s natural healing process, and physical therapy encourages circulation and mobility.
If you experience a serious fracture and splinting isn’t an option, Dr. Tamai might recommend bone fracture repair surgery. During this type of operation, Dr. Tamai uses a series of metal plates and screws to reposition your bone and hold it in place.
If you’re interested in learning more about fracture care, book an appointment with Dr. Tamai at Orthopaedic Surgical Associates, LLC, by calling the office or clicking the online scheduling tool today.
