What is good to eat for fractures?

Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
Updated on September 08, 2024
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If a fracture occurs, it is recommended to start with a light diet, consuming easily digestible foods such as leafy greens and porridge to facilitate the recovery of gastrointestinal function. Once the condition stabilizes, you can add foods rich in protein and calcium, such as beef, eggs, bean products, and milk, which are all good sources of protein and calcium. It is advisable not to consume foods that are too high in fat as they can lead to weight gain and also interfere with the absorption of calcium.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
1min 24sec home-news-image

How is a fracture treated?

The treatment of fractures involves three main principles: reduction, fixation, and functional exercise. First and foremost, a perfect reduction is required after a fracture. If the alignment of the fracture is not satisfactory, the fracture may require either closed or open reduction. After a successful closed reduction, if the fracture position is stable, fixation should be considered. Generally, following a successful closed reduction, a local application of a cast or splint can be done for external fixation. If the results of closed reduction are not satisfactory, surgical open reduction may be needed. In such cases, internal fixation, possibly with steel plates, steel pins, or intramedullary nails among other methods, is necessary. These first two points cover the need for reduction and effective fixation—including both external and internal fixation. After proper fixation, the fracture can gradually heal. During the healing process, active functional exercises are needed to prevent muscle atrophy and joint adhesion. To avoid disuse of the limb, muscle atrophy after removing the cast, whether it be a leg or an arm, functional exercises are imperative. Thus, the three principles of fracture treatment are reduction, fixation, and functional exercise, requiring professional care by medical experts in accredited hospitals.

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Written by Li Xin
Pediatric Orthopedics
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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 Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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Fractures are categorized into several types.

In short, fractures can be classified into the following types: First, based on the integrity of the skin and mucous membrane at the fracture site, it can be classified into closed fractures and open fractures. Second, based on the shape and degree of the fracture. It can be categorized into oblique fractures, transverse fractures, spiral fractures, comminuted fractures, greenstick fractures, impacted fractures, compression fractures, and bone injuries. Third, based on the stability of the fracture ends, it can be classified into stable fractures and unstable fractures. Among unstable fractures, these include oblique fractures, spiral fractures, and comminuted fractures. Thus, fracture classification fundamentally falls into these major categories.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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Bone fracture, hot compress or cold compress?

A fracture refers to the disruption of the integrity and continuity of the bone, leading to symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, and restricted movement. In the early stages of the injury, there may be bleeding, swelling, and pain. It is recommended to apply cold compresses to alleviate these symptoms. After the acute phase, choosing the appropriate treatment method, such as external fixation or internal fixation, is advisable. Once the condition has stabilized, applying heat may be beneficial to promote blood circulation around the tissues and aid in the recovery from the injury. Therefore, in the early stages of a fracture, it is important to primarily use cold compresses.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Can I take calcium tablets for a fracture?

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.