A fracture, or broken bone, requires professional care for the bones to heal properly. The skilled medical team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates offers superior fracture care in Dallas, TX, and surrounding areas. If you suspect you may have a fracture, call your nearest office or book an appointment online for timely treatment.
Fracture Treatment Q&A
What Is a Fracture?
A fracture is the same thing as a broken bone. Fractures can range in severity from a thin crack that’s hardly visible to a completely broken bone that shatters into multiple pieces. There are many different types of fractures, including:
- A stable fracture in which the bone’s broken ends remain properly aligned
- A displaced fracture that causes the broken ends to move out of alignment
- An open, compound fracture in which the broken bone pierces through the skin
- A comminuted fracture that involves a bone that shatters into three or more pieces
A fracture that causes the bone to crack without breaking all the way through is known as an incomplete fracture. While more severe types, such as an open fracture, create visible deformities, an incomplete fracture may not be so obvious.
How To Tell If You Fractured a Bone
Most of the time, fractures cause sudden, intense pain at the time of injury. The pain may prevent you from bearing weight on or moving the injured area. Other common symptoms that accompany a fracture include:
- Swelling and bruising
- Visible deformity
- A snapping sound at the time of injury
Seek emergency medical care right away if you have an open wound with a bone poking through your skin or if you experience severe symptoms such as dizziness.
How Are Fractures Diagnosed?
First, your expert physician at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, performs a physical exam. They listen to you describe how the injury occurred as well as your symptoms and medical history. They may perform an in-office X-ray to confirm you have a broken bone.
How to Treat Bone Fractures
Then, your provider recommends the best treatment for your specific fracture type, severity, and location. Depending on your needs, fracture care may include:
- Immobilization with a cast or brace
- Traction to align the bones
- Surgical alignment with metal pins or screws
More complex conditions, such as compound or comminuted fractures, may require surgery to repair. Afterward, the team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, develops a fracture recovery and rehabilitation plan to help you get back to your regular activities.
For the highest quality treatment in fracture care, call Texas Orthopaedic Associates, or book an appointment online today.