Doctors diagnose fractures using X-ray. In the rare case where the fracture does not show up on X-ray, a doctor will order a CT test or an MRI.
Injuries will happen. They are difficult to prevent. Bone loss associated with aging can be prevented, however. A balanced diet that includes 100% of the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowances, especially of calcium and Vitamin D, can lower the risk of bone loss. Regular exercise is very important to keep bones strong. Post-menopausal women should ask their doctor about hormone therapy.
The first thing the doctor will do is ensure the broken pieces of bone are in the proper alignment. Putting them back into the right alignment is called reduction, and may in some cases require surgery.
Once the bones are properly aligned, they are immobilized so they can be held in the right position while they heal. (Click here for pictures of the healing process.)
Several treatment options are available to heal fractures, depending on the placement of the injury:
- A cast of firm plastic or plaster is wrapped around the area to support the broken bone.
- A splint is a firm object or “brace” that is sometimes attached to the area surrounding the bone.
- A finger or toe can be bandaged to the one next to it to hold it in place.
- Sometimes the doctor will perform surgery to insert a pin, rod, or plate inside the bone to hold it in place. This means the injured limb can be used much sooner.
- Certain bones, like the ribs, are naturally held in place by other bones. They don’t require any other support.
If an area is kept motionless for a long time, the muscles get weak and tight. Often the injured area must be rehabilitated. It is important to follow the doctor’s advice about how to move and exercise the area. A fracture may require physical therapy, beginning while the bone is still immobilized. The goal is to keep the nearby joints as active as possible without disturbing the healing process. Following the doctor’s plan will help keep down swelling and increase the blood flow to the bone, which helps it heal.
Fractures can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months to heal, depending on the severity of the injury and the age of the injured. Prolonged healing may require additional treatment from your doctor.
