Can I take calcium tablets for a fracture?

Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
Updated on September 18, 2024
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After a fracture, there are generally several stages a person will go through. These can typically be divided into the following stages: hematoma organization stage, fibrous connection stage, initial callus stage, mature callus stage, and then the remodeling stage. During these periods, the area of the bone is undergoing a metabolic process involving both osteoclasts and osteoblasts. During this metabolic process, calcium is required, and a deficiency in calcium can affect the healing of the fracture. Therefore, it is advised that patients with fractures should take calcium supplements. Along with calcium, it is also recommended to supplement with vitamin D, which can enhance bone absorption and calcium absorption, aiding in the healing of fractures. Thus, the conclusion is that fracture patients can indeed take calcium tablets.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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Does a fracture hurt?

Fractures refer to the disruption of the continuity and integrity of the bone, which can lead to symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, deformity, and even limited mobility. Therefore, pain is a primary symptom of fractures. Due to the displacement of fracture ends and the irritation of nerves around the periosteum, severe pain can occur. After a fracture, it is important to immobilize the affected area to avoid exacerbating the symptoms during transportation or movement, and immobilization can also help reduce localized pain.

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What does a fracture feel like?

The feeling of a fracture, first and foremost, the most important clinical manifestation is pain. Of course, the intensity of the pain is related to the type of fracture. Generally, incomplete fractures or greenstick fractures are not as painful, but if the fracture is displaced, comminuted, or other types, the pain is more pronounced. The second manifestation is swelling; the area of the fracture will show obvious swelling and become quite enlarged. The third is tenderness, which means that touching or pressing on the area will result in noticeable pain. Fourth, there is a significant restriction of movement in the joints adjacent to the fracture site.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Symptoms of rib fracture

After a rib fracture, the main symptom is pain. This is because the intercostal nerves located in the rib area are very rich, making the pain quite intense. Especially when the patient coughs or sneezes, and when the abdominal pressure increases, the pain can get quite severe. Also, when the patient changes their position, such as moving from sitting to lying down, or from lying down to sitting up to standing, the pain is very apparent. Additionally, another sign that may appear is local crepitus or a sensation of bone rubbing. That is, when pressing with a hand, one might feel the rubbing of the fractured bone and hear a crackling sound under the hand. Moreover, a rib fracture could lead to the accumulation of fluid or air in the chest cavity. If there is fluid or air in the chest cavity, it can be accompanied by difficulties in breathing and poor respiratory function, shortness of breath, and other related symptoms. These are some common symptoms of rib fractures.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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What to eat with a rib fracture

The diet for patients with rib fractures is not much different from that for general fracture patients. It is advisable to eat more high-nutrition, high-protein, low-fat, and easily digestible foods, which can facilitate the healing of fractures. Additionally, consumption of calcium-rich foods, such as eggs, milk, fish, or shrimp shells, can be beneficial. At the same time, taking calcium tablets and vitamin D can also promote the healing of fractures. Furthermore, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, there is a belief in "like cures like," so for rib fractures, consuming ribs, such as pork ribs, could theoretically help in the healing process according to this theory.

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Written by Lv Yao
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What should I do if I have a fracture?

When a fracture occurs, temporary immobilization is needed to alleviate local pain and prevent further fractures during transfer. If there is an open wound, it should be bandaged and isolated from the external environment to prevent infection. If there are injuries to vital organs, life-saving measures should be administered immediately, followed by treatment of the fracture. Therefore, appropriate immobilization is necessary when a fracture occurs.