Trauma And Fracture

What are trauma and fracture?

Slip and falls, automobile accidents, and general wear-and-tear can all result in trauma and fracture. Though many people use these terms interchangeably, they’re actually two different conditions.

Trauma

Trauma occurs due to a sudden, acute injury. Trauma requires immediate medical attention to ease pain and prevent further damage. These types of injuries can affect both hard and soft tissues, including bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Fractures

Fractures result in one or more broken bones. A common type of foot fracture is a stress fracture. Stress fractures occur due to overuse and cause tiny cracks in the bone. Like trauma, fractures require immediate intervention. 

What are the symptoms of trauma and fracture?

The symptoms of trauma and fracture vary from person to person, but common signs include:

• Pain
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Visible damage, like a bone sticking out

If you experience foot trauma or a fracture, you might also find it difficult to place weight on the affected foot or walk around.

How are trauma and fractures diagnosed?

To diagnose trauma and fractures, Dr. House physically examines your feet and ankles, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms and the events leading up to the injury. He also has you move your foot to test its range of motion. If he suspects a stress fracture, he might also have you walk around the exam room.

If these measures don’t provide enough information to make a diagnosis, Dr. House orders an X-ray, bone scan, computed tomography (CT) scan, or MRI. These tools provide detailed images of the hard and soft structures in your feet and ankles.

How are trauma and fractures treated?

Treatment of trauma and fractures depends on the severity of your injury and its effect on your quality of life. Whenever possible, Dr. House recommends conservative, at-home treatments like rest, taking over-the-counter pain medications, and keeping weight off the affected foot or ankle. You might also benefit from wearing a cast, brace, boot, or special shoes. 

If your trauma or fracture is severe, you might need foot and ankle surgery. During this type of procedure, Dr. House carefully manipulates your bones to put them back in place. To speed up the healing process, he might also implant rods, screws, pins, or plates.

Don’t let trauma and fractures keep you sidelined. Schedule an appointment at Kinetic Foot and Ankle Clinic. Call the office and speak with a friendly staff member, or book a consultation online today. 

Notes: 

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/broken-foot-symptoms