In our last article on “Playing sports? This is what you need to do to protect your joints”, we described a number of ways athletes can protect their joints.
But even with the best intentions and taking the necessary preventive measures, like wearing protective gear and warming up before a workout, accidents happen. And when a fracture occurs, where do you look for help?
Are you wondering what kind of treatments are available at our orthopedic centers? This article is for you!
What is a Fracture
A fracture is a break in the bone, usually caused by a force greater than what the bone can withstand. A fracture is often the term used when speaking of a broken bone. A fracture can range from just a hairline crack to where the bone is split into two.
How is a Fracture Diagnosed
Usually, a fracture is diagnosed with an x-ray, though sometimes they may order a CT scan or an MRI.
A physician can determine the severity of the injury based on the images and develop a treatment plan based on the results.
What are the Types of Fractures
The main types of fractures are displaced, non-displaced, open, or closed. The difference between a displaced and non-displaced fracture is how they are aligned after the injury.
When you have a displaced fracture, the bone is broken into two and is not in alignment. With a non-displaced, the bone is broken but remains aligned.
The difference between open or closed fractures is if they break the skin. The bone does not break through the skin with a closed fracture, while it does with an open fracture.
What are the Symptoms of a Fracture
Symptoms can include pain, swelling, or bruising around the injured area. Other symptoms of a fracture include:
- A popping noise at the location of the injury
- Limited mobility where the fracture occurred
- Visible bone that has broken the skin
Some but not all fractures may require surgery, especially if dis-placed or an open fracture.
Can a Fracture Heal Without Surgery
Once diagnosed, the physician can determine if the fracture requires surgery. Non-surgical methods for treatment include splinting the area, casting, or possibly re-setting the bone without surgery.
What Happens if a Fracture is Not Treated
If left untreated, the fracture may not heal properly. This can cause more problems in the future. Complications can include infection, which eventually can turn into osteomyelitis, a severe bone infection.
Untreated fractures may also cause nerve problems as well as displaced healing when not treated. This is why it is important to see a physician or specialized orthopedic surgeon.
Learn more about sports medicine in Boca Raton & fracture treatment
All our orthopedic surgeons in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach treat various breaks and fractures every day.
The orthopedic doctors at our orthopedic centers provide comprehensive patient care.
Our entire team – consisting of orthopedic surgeons (Board Certified and Fellowship trained in their fields), Registered Physical Therapists, Clinical Exercise Physiologists, Certified Physician Assistants, Occupational Therapists, and Certified Hand Therapists – is experienced at helping patients with orthopedic injuries get back on their feet.
Orthopedic Boca Raton – About Orthopaedic Surgery Associates
Orthopaedic Surgery Associates is a modern facility that provides a wide range of orthopedic and rehabilitation services. We are one of the nation’s most progressive groups for diagnosing and treating hand, knee, hip, spinal, foot, and other orthopedic disorders and injuries in Palm Beach County (Boca Raton and Boynton Beach).
Orthopaedic Surgery Associates is known mainly for its highly professional and experienced group of orthopedic surgeons, who are regularly recognized for their fantastic work.
Our specialists in sports medicine are Dr. Shapiro and Dr. Stucken. They are both team physicians for Major League Lacrosse’s Florida Launch. Whether you are a professional or an amateur, you need to take good care of your joints – after all, they have to last you a lifetime!
We offer sports medicine in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach for your convenience if you are concerned or need an evaluation after a recent injury.
If you’d like to consult one of our orthopaedic surgeons, we are here for you. Our professional team of orthopedic physicians will take good care of you.
Our office serves patients in the Palm Beach County area with two convenient locations
Telemedicine appointments are also available for your initial consultation and follow-up checkups. We look forward to seeing you soon!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
