What causes broken bones?
Suffering from a broken bone can be overwhelming, especially if you have a complex fracture. Broken bones, also known as bone fractures, can vary from mild to severe and can be caused by:
- Slips and falls
- Dislocating a joint
- Gradual wear-and-tear (stress fractures)
- Muscle or ligament tension (avulsion fractures)
- Compression or crushing, possibly during a car accident
- Direct impact, such as getting kicked in the shin during a sporting event
It’s even possible to break a bone easily by doing something routine — like coughing or sneezing — because you have weakened bones, which is often caused by osteoarthritis.
How do I know if I have a broken bone?
The signs and symptoms of broken bones vary depending on the severity and location of your fracture. You might be able to tell that you have a broken bone if you experience or notice:
- Grating sensations while moving the bone
- Inability to bear weight on the bone
- Swelling, bruising, or inflammation
- Visible bumps or deformities
- Open wound or bleeding
- Limited range of motion
Of course, the only way to know for certain if you have a broken bone is to visit Mehling Orthopedics for a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Mehling and Dr. Yufit have access to digital X-ray imaging services at any of the practice locations, so you can get your diagnosis quickly and often get started on treatment the same day.
Which broken bone treatment do I need?
Depending on the severity of your broken bone and where it’s located, your treatment plan is likely going to include a series of progressive therapies. Initially, it’s important to immobilize the broken bone through casting, splinting, or bracing. To promote healing and help you return to 100%, your broken bone treatment plan from Mehling Orthopedics may also include:
- Physical therapy
- Pain medications
- Therapeutic ultrasound
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Regenerative medicine, like autologous stem cell therapy
If you have a complex bone fracture, you might need surgery. Dr. Mehling and Dr. Yufit can implant screws, plates, or rods to internally immobilize your bone to promote healing. Surgery is typically reserved for complex fractures where the bone is crushed, broken in multiple places, or broken all the way through.
No matter which type of treatment is right for you, at Mehling Orthopedics, you can expect comprehensive fracture care throughout your entire healing or postoperative period.
Schedule your broken bone evaluation at Mehling Orthopedics today. Click on the online booking feature or call any location to speak with a team member.
