Recently sustained a serious injury? You feel extreme pain with swelling and are concerned you may have a bone fracture. Learn the symptoms of fractures and first aid steps to take if you suspect a fracture.

Symptoms of a Fracture

Fracture symptoms, or broken bone, may vary depending on the site and severity, but in general, they may include: (1)

• Severe pain; is the most common symptom.
• Inability to move the part affected or difficulty in doing so.
• Swelling and bruising around the site of the injury.
• Distortion or an odd shape of the limb with the fracture, for example, an unusual bend.
• Numbness or lack of sensation around the injury.
• Severe fractures may also cause bleeding and/or bones protruding from the skin.

Suspected fracture? Receive exceptional emergency care at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital emergency department, 24/7.

First Aids for Fractures

What to Do if You Think You Have a Fracture? This is probably the first question that comes to your mind when you have a severe injury. Below are the first aid steps: (2)(3)

1. Seek Medical Help

• Call emergency services if the fracture is open and bones are visible, or if you suspect a fracture in the back, neck, or pelvis.
•  For minor injuries, you can transport the patient directly to the hospital after providing first aid.

2. Don't Move the Injured Patient

Evaluate the situation carefully. Do not move the injured person unless in danger. 

3. Bleeding Control

If there is an open fracture, use a clean cloth or bandage to apply firm pressure to the wound. Once bleeding is controlled, bandage the wound, but avoid pressing on the protruding bone or suspected site of fracture.

4. Immobilize the Injured Area:

By immobilizing the joint above and below the fracture site. Use a splint if available, but do not attempt to straighten the limb or move the bone. You can use items like rolled-up newspapers or magazines as temporary splints.

5. Apply Ice

Wrap an ice pack in a cloth and apply it to the injured area to reduce swelling and pain.

6. Continuous Observation

Continuously ask the patient if there are any alterations in sensation at the fracture site, such as tingling, changes in temperature, or complete numbness.

If shock occurs (pale, cold, clammy skin; rapid breathing; confusion) and there is no suspected fracture of pelvis/hip, elevate legs and  maintain normal body temperature.

Fracture Treatment

Minor fractures may heal with a splint, rest, and pain relievers. For more severe fractures, the bones may need to be realigned before the cast is applied. However, complex fractures may require surgery. In all cases, a doctor will need an X-ray to confirm the fracture and assess its severity before determining the best course of treatment. (4)

The duration of wearing the cast varies but can range from 3-8 weeks (or longer in severe cases). You may experience swelling and bruising for several weeks after the splint is removed. Physical therapy and exercises advised by a doctor are essential for optimal recovery. (4)

References:

1. Broken Bone and Fracture: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment, UPMC
2. Broken Bones & Fractures - Emergency First Aid, St John Ambulance
3. Fractures (broken bones): First aid, Mayo Clinic‍
4. Fractures (Broken Bones), American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)