Benbrudd: Symptomer, årsaker og behandling

What is a bone fracture?

What is a broken bone? A broken bone occurs when a bone is subjected to a force that exceeds its strength. Broken bones often occur when a person falls or receives a strong blow. It is common for the foot to be caught under the body during a fall to cause a broken bone. A fracture can be open or closed. In an open fracture, the bone protrudes through the skin, while in a closed fracture, the skin is intact.

Fractures can be simple (where the bone is broken but the skin is intact) or complex (where the bone breaks through the skin). There are also different types of fractures, including crack, spiral, and compression fractures. Bone tissue has a certain elasticity, but if too much stress is applied, the bone can break. The injury can range in severity from a small crack to a complete fracture.

Symptoms of bone fracture

Symptoms of a broken bone vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Common signs that you have broken a bone include:

• Intense pain at the site of the injury, especially with movement or pressure
• Swelling and bruising around the affected area
• Visible deformity or abnormal angle of the injured body part
• Limited mobility or inability to use the arm or leg
• Snapping sound at the time of injury
• Loss of sensation or tingling in severe fractures
• Pain and inability to use the injured body part normally

In children, additional signs may include a reluctance to move normally or not wanting to use the arm or leg. Therefore, children are more likely to have symptoms that can be confused with other injuries but should be treated as regular bone fractures to be on the safe side. Children are more likely to sustain a bone injury in situations where adults would be able to survive without a fracture because the softer bone in children can be more susceptible to injury, but at the same time, children's bones are more flexible.

Causes of bone fractures

Bone fractures are usually caused by trauma, such as falling, being in a car accident, or suffering a sports injury. Bone fractures often occur when a person slips or falls, especially in older people whose bones become more fragile over time. The risk of bone fractures increases with age because bones become more fragile over time.

Other factors that can contribute to fractures include:

• Osteoporosis: A condition that weakens the bones and increases the risk of fractures
• Overuse: Repetitive movements can cause stress fractures, especially in athletes
• Underlying diseases: Conditions such as cancer or infections can weaken the bones
• Falls or collisions: Often occurs when a person falls in a certain way or collides with something

Children can suffer fractures in situations where adults might only get bruises. This depends on how the injury affects their growing skeleton. In situations where an adult would get a sprain, an adult would suffer an injury that is less severe than in a child, where the same force can cause a fracture because a child's skeleton is softer.

Treatment of bone fractures

Treatment for a broken bone depends on the type and severity of the injury. The goals of treatment are to stabilize the bone, relieve pain, and promote healing. If you suspect a spinal fracture, it is important to be cautious. In the case of a spinal fracture, you should only move the person if it is necessary to save their life.

Common treatment methods include:

Treatment of adults

For adults, treatment usually includes immobilization by being in a cast, and possibly surgery depending on the fracture. Painkillers containing paracetamol can be used to manage the pain. Rehabilitation with a physiotherapist is often necessary after the cast is removed, which usually takes four to six weeks.

Treatment of children

Treatment for children is similar but is adapted to their growing skeleton. Children may sometimes need to be sedated during treatment to reduce discomfort. A parent or close relative should always be with the child during treatment to provide reassurance. If the doctor suspects that the bone is damaged but does not see a clear fracture on X-ray, children may still be casted as a precaution.

Preventive measures

Although it can be difficult to prevent accident-related bone fractures, there are measures that can reduce the risk:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D for strong bones
• Exercise regularly to strengthen muscles and improve balance
• Using protective equipment in sports with a high risk of injury
• Avoid dangerous environments where the risk of falling is high
• Be extra careful when it is slippery outside to avoid slipping and falling.

Conclusion

Bone fractures are a common but manageable injury with proper diagnosis and treatment from an outpatient specialist. By being aware of the symptoms and seeking care in a timely manner, most people can make a full recovery. If you suspect that your bone is broken or if you are in pain and unable to use a part of your body, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Using supportive aids such as the Knee Comfort™ and Termoreliever™ can further enhance the recovery process by providing stability, relieving discomfort, and promoting better blood circulation. A parent or other close relative can be an important support during the healing process, especially for children.

Rehabilitation and recovery after a broken foot

After initial treatment, the recovery process is crucial:

• Rest and relieve the foot as directed by your doctor.
• Gradual return to normal activity under supervision
• Perform recommended exercises to strengthen the foot and regain mobility
• Use supportive aids like the FootSupport 2.0 for extra stability
• Follow regular check-ups to ensure healing is progressing as it should.
• Be alert for signs of complications such as increased pain or swelling

Healing time varies depending on the type and location of the fracture. Simple fractures can heal in about six weeks, while more complex fractures can take several months. Children often heal faster because their bones grow and heal faster. If plates or screws have been surgically inserted, these are usually removed when they are no longer needed, especially in younger children. Some patients may also experience burning feet during rehabilitation.