Primary Bone Healing

Bone fractures are a combination of a tissue injury and a complete or incomplete breakage of bone caused by a traumatic force or physical blow that was far greater than the strength of the bone itself. Bones can be fractured in several ways and they are classified into different categories to making diagnosis easier for physicians.

The skeletal system serves a big function in the body because not only does it give the person its structural form, bones support and protect the internal organs. Bones naturally break and build; and are therefore self-healing but there are several methods to promote bone healing and you shall find out more about further into this article.

Types of fracture of broken bone

• Avulsion fracture – a type of bone fracture that involves the pulling of the tendon from the bone; the tendon carrying a piece of the bone with it.

• Closed fracture – a fracture where the fractured bone is within the skin

• Comminuted fracture – bone fracture involving the bone being broken into multiple fragments

• Greenstick fracture – this is an incomplete fracture of the bone that is commonly seen on children

• Impacted fracture – this is a fracture that is a result of a compression

• Intra-articular fracture – a type of bone fracture wherein that involves the articular joint surface of the bone

• Longitudinal fracture – when the fracture on the bone follows the long axis of the bone

• Open fracture  –  also known as compound fractures; this is a kind of fracture wherein the bone is seen penetrating through the skin

• Oblique fracture –  a bone fracture that follows an oblique or slanting line

• Pathologic fracture – a fracture caused by a pathological condition that has affected the bone

• Periarticular fracture – fractures that do not involve the joint space

• Simple fracture – a fracture that involves just two bone fragments

• Spiral fracture – this is a severe kind of oblique fracture caused by a rotational force

• Stress fracture – this is a fracture that is a result of repeated and excessive; usually the injury of athletes

• Transverse fracture – fractures on the bone that are perpendicular to the long axis of the bone.

Broken bones diagnosis

The complete diagnosis of a bone fracture follows several steps. First of all, the doctor will carry out a physical examination to identify whether you have the signs and symptoms present. The doctor will also ask some questions and obtain the history of the injury from you. If a patient is unconscious at the point of consultation, his or her companions would have to take over for the patient. Rehabilitation or rehab is required.

Should the doctor find it difficult to diagnose the presence of  a fracture from the examination, he will definitely request for the patient to undergo further examinations and tests to properly identify any irregularities:

a. X-rays
b. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
c. Computed Tomography (CT scan)

After a successful diagnosis, the patient can be on his way to treatment and the doctor will do all he can to promote bone healing.

Common Causes of Bone Fracture Injury

• Falling from a height
• Vehicular accidents
• Physical injuries form activities or sports
• Dangerous lifestyle
• A disease that renders bone to be susceptible to fracture
• Stress fractures are a result of continued or repetitive blows which is usually the problem with athletes who endure repetitive injuries

Symptoms of Bone Fracture Injury

If the patient presents any of the following signs and symptoms, he or she could be suffering from bone fractures

• Bone Pain (that may be severe or not)
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Discoloration of the skin, especially around the affected area
• If there is any area in the limbs in an abnormal position
• If the patient is finding it difficult to put pressure on the injured area
• If the patient is finding it difficult to move the injured area
• If the affected bone or joint presents a notable grating sensation
• If it's a compound fracture there could also be bleeding
• If the patient looks pale and clammy
• If the patient is feeling dizzy or faint
• If the patient is quite feverish and nauseous

Treatment for bone fracture injuries

Primary bone healing is desired for every bone fracture. If this is achieved then the bone can easily accelerate to the complete healing process, which is, of course, the goal that every doctor looks for in their patients. Before any healing can be expected however, it is first important for the patient to receive the right treatment first. Bones, naturally heal itself, so minor fractures usually heal on its own and therefore only require immobilization with a cast, brace, splint, and sling. Stabilization promotes primary bone healing and because bone infiltrate will migrate properly to fill in the gaps well if the bone pieces are positioned properly.

If the bones cannot be positioned properly through the methods mentioned above, surgical treatment is required. This kind of bone treatment involves the use of pins, plates, and rods. The metal hardware will be used to keep the broken fragments in place so that they can be allowed to heal properly.

Bone Healing Time or Recovery Time: It may take more than 1 month.

Prevention of Bone fractInjury:

Bone fractures cannot be prevented easily but it is not bad to try. Exposing the body to an ample amount of sunlight will keep the bones healthy and supplied with vitamin D. Eating foods rich in calcium is good too. One more way to prevent bone injuries is to avoid physical activity, or if you cannot, you should make sure to protect yourself from any unexpected injuries. Wear protective gear at all times and make sure to support the delicate parts of your body.

When to Call a Doctor

Broken bones are a serious matter, therefore contact a doctor right away, as soon as the accident happens. Fractures can occur in different ways and they can be too severe and can lead to further complications. Be smart and seek professional help, to better address the condition.