A fracture is a break in the bone that can occur from either a quick one-time injury to the bone such as an impact or blow injury, this is called an acute fracture. Repeated stress to the bone over a period is called a stress fracture.
Closed and Open Fractures
Closed fractures can be simple. A clean break with little damage to the surrounding tissue or open, a break in which the bone pierces the skin with little damage to the surrounding tissue.
Most open fractures are emergencies. One that breaks the skin is especially dangerous because there is a high risk of infection.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures occur largely in the feet and legs and are common in sports that require repetitive impact, primarily running/jumping sports such as gymnastics or track and field. Running creates forces two to three times a person's body weight on the lower limbs. The most common symptom of a stress fracture is a pain at the site that worsens with weight-bearing activity. Tenderness and swelling often accompany the pain.
Dislocations: Common Joint Dislocations
When the two bones that come together to form a joint become separated, the joint is described as dislocated. Contact sports such as football and rugby, as well as high-impact sports, and sports that can result in excessive stretching or falling, cause many dislocations.
Dislocations Require Medical Treatment
A dislocated joint is an emergency that requires medical treatment. The joints most likely to be dislocated are some of the hand joints. Aside from these joints, the joint most frequently dislocated is the shoulder. Dislocations of the knees, hips, and elbows are uncommon.
What are the signs and symptoms of fractures throughout the body?
Arm
Pain, swelling, abnormal bend, difficulty using or moving arm, warmth, bruising, or redness
Elbow
Pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, a ‘pop’ noise at the time of fracture, or visible deformity
Wrist
Pain, swelling, decreased use of hand and wrist, a crooked or deformed appearance, and unable to hold a grip
Hand
Pain, swelling, tenderness to touch, stiffness, and weakness. Deformities are not always common
Finger
Pain, swelling, unable to move the finger, a shortened finger, or a depressed knuckle
Leg
Severe pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, obvious deformity, and the inability to walk
Knee Pain,
Swelling, bruising, inability to straighten the knee and the inability to walk
Ankle
Severe pain, swelling, tenderness to touch, bruising, deformity, and the inability to walk
Foot
Severe pain, swelling, bruising, numbness in toes and foot, decreased range of motion, inability to walk comfortably, and visible deformity
Initial bone fracture treatment will require x-ray and stabilization from a medical professional. Our Physiotherapists can provide rehabilitation exercises to assist with long term recovery to restore full joint mobility and function.
*always seek a medical professionals care and advice regarding injuries