Fractures

What causes bone fractures?

Bone fractures tend to occur because of sudden impact. If you land incorrectly or twist your leg, for example, you put added stress on your bones, which can lead to a fracture. Bones can also break because of a crush injury at work, or if someone stomps on your foot during a sporting event.

Your risk of suffering from a bone fracture is greater if you have weakened bones due to osteoporosis, or if you previously broke a bone that never healed correctly.

Not all fractures are acute injuries. Sometimes bones break gradually over time, starting with a hairline crack. This is known as a stress fracture and is one of the most common runner injuries and sports injuries.

Are there symptoms of bone fractures?

Oftentimes, yes, since you feel pain in the area. The symptoms you experience with a bone fracture depend on the severity of your broken bone, and include:

• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Bruising
• Bony bump
• Loss of sensation
• Decreased range of motion
• Pain that worsens with activity

If you have a complex fracture, you may also find that your pain is so severe you can’t bear weight on your foot. Since early intervention is essential for proper healing, visit with the podiatrists at Apple Podiatry Group if any of these fracture symptoms sound familiar.

How are bone fractures treated?

Typically, your podiatrist diagnoses a bone fracture through a physical exam and an in-office X-ray. Once your dedicated podiatrist at Apple Podiatry Group diagnoses you, they talk with you about your injury and what to expect during your treatment.

It’s common to immobilize the broken bone with a cast, walking boot, or splint. To help with pain, you may need prescription-strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as well as several days of rest, ice, and elevation.

If you have a complex fracture that needs to be reset (known as a “fracture reduction”), your expert podiatrist at Apple Podiatry Group could recommend surgery.

Bone fracture surgery allows your podiatrist to place screws, plates, pins, or rods, which help stabilize your bones to promote proper healing.

Once you start healing, you may need physical therapy to help rebuild strength and flexibility. No matter which treatment path you need for your fracture, the podiatrists at Apple Podiatry Group care for you every step of the way.

If you have a bone fracture, schedule an evaluation at Apple Podiatry Group right away. Click the online scheduler or call either location directly to book a same-day urgent appointment.