Broken bones require immediate attention, as improper or negligent care may interfere in the healing process. As a result, bones may end up healing incorrectly, leading to long-term complications and unnecessary pain. An urgent care facility can help patients with broken bones that have not punctured the skin, shattered in multiple places or are accompanied by any life-threatening issues.
Treatment for broken bones is available at Encompass Care in North Las Vegas and the surrounding area. We are dedicated to helping our patients recover as quickly and as comfortably as possible. Call us today at (702) 514-4295 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Broken bones exist on a spectrum of severity, from minor to severe. A broken bone, also known as a bone fracture, is any bone with a crack, slight break, or complete break. The most common bone fractures are closed fractures, comminuted fractures, oblique fractures, open or compound fractures, and simple fractures.
In a closed fracture, the break does not puncture the skin, and the bone is not visible. In comparison, a comminuted fracture is much more severe and entails the bone shattering into three or more fragments. A break in an oblique fracture results in an angled pattern. In an open fracture, the break pierces through the skin, potentially leaving the bone visible.
Simple fractures are typically the easiest to diagnose, though there may be some initial confusion over whether the bone is actually broken or just deeply bruised. Although painful, it is fairly easy to treat a broken bone so patients can often make a full recovery with the right care.
It can be difficult for individuals to recognize when they have broken a bone, especially when the break is not as severe (as is the case with many simple fractures). Thus, patients should seek medical attention as soon as they begin experiencing any symptoms. These include:
Pain can come from various conditions, such as deep bone bruising, dislocated joints, or sprains. Only a physician can correctly diagnose a patient's condition and plan out the best method of treatment.
As mentioned earlier, improper procedure after a broken bone can lead to severe long-term complications. While not all severe bone injuries result in a bone fracture, it is crucial to receive a proper medical diagnosis before starting any long-term treatment — and especially before returning to physical activity.
Luckily, there are several options available to ensure the rehabilitation process goes smoothly. Typically, simple fractures are encased in a cast after arranging the bone back into place. The cast, which the patient usually wears for several weeks, helps ensure the bone does not shift as it heals.
If the broken bone is more severe, such as a comminuted fracture, surgery may be required for proper repositioning. The most common forms of surgery to fix a broken bone are external fixation and internal fixation. In an external fixation procedure, pins connect a ring or bar outside the bone to hold it into place. We will remove the pins after the broken bone has healed, the pins are removed. Internal fixation requires the use of metal rods or screws to be inserted into the bone fragments to keep them intact.
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Q. What is the difference between a bone fracture and a dislocated joint?
A. Since dislocated joints are caused in the same manner as bone fractures, they often share the same symptoms. Both may be very painful, create an inability to move or use the affected joint, and can lead to a body part appearing out of position. The main difference between the two is that a bone fracture describes a break in the bone, while a dislocated joint usually does not involve bone damage at all. While a dislocated joint can be scary and benefit from a trip to an urgent care facility, it is relatively easy to diagnose and treat.
Q. How long does it take to recover from a broken bone?
A. The recovery time for a simple fracture is typically between six to eight weeks, although the exact time varies for each individual. More serious fractures that require surgery to repair may take longer to heal. Many cases may also need physical therapy as part of the healing process, primarily if the injury occurred while playing a sport. You can help ensure a speedy recovery by receiving proper rest and staying off the affected area, particularly if it is a leg or foot. Also, follow any advice given by your physician and communicate with them throughout the healing process.
Q. Do all bone fractures require surgery?
A. Many bone fractures do not require surgery to heal correctly. For more minor fractures, such as a simple fracture and some oblique fractures, the broken bone can heal with cast immobilization and proper rehabilitation. However, most comminuted fractures and compound fractures require surgery to fully restore the bone to its original strength and function. Be sure to consult with your physician about all treatment options available and voice any questions or concerns you have about the treatment and healing process.
Q. How long will it take for my ligaments to heal?
A. Ligaments are the connective tissue that attaches one bone to another. They heal much more slowly than broken bones. It can take several months for ligaments to recover, mostly due to their relatively poor blood supply.
Q. What will it look like when I get my cast removed?
A. It is typical for the injured area to look and feel strange once your cast has been removed. Skin may be dry, flaky, or pale, and hair will likely look darker. You may also feel that your muscles have become smaller or weaker. Luckily, these changes are all temporary. Your doctor may also provide you with special exercises to do to return your muscles to their original state.
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with stronger medication and treatment options instead of ineffective store-bought products.
Proper examination and diagnosis are essential to the appropriate healing of broken bones. We at Encompass Care may be able to help. Call us today at 702-514-4295 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services. We also accept walk-ins.
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