Does a fracture hurt?

Written by Li Jie

Orthopedics

Updated on September 13, 2024

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A fracture is an interruption in the continuity of a bone. After a fracture, there is significant bleeding at the site, along with bruising of the soft tissues nearby, including bleeding from blood vessels and bruising of muscles and tendons. Because these soft tissues are rich in nerves, the pain at the site of the fracture can be very severe. Pain is a primary symptom for patients with fractures. Other symptoms may include swelling, limitation of joint movement, potential deformities, and changes in the local shape. Pain, deformity, and limited function are the three common signs seen in patients with fractures.

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Written by Wang Cheng Lin

Orthopedics

41sec

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How is a fracture treated?

For the treatment of fractures, we first need to determine the type of fracture. First, whether the alignment of the fracture is appropriate, and whether there is any obvious displacement; second, whether it is a comminuted fracture; third, whether the fracture ends have affected the joint surface. If the alignment of the fracture is very good, doesn’t involve the joint surface, and is not comminuted, then conservative treatment, such as plastering or splinting, can lead to a full recovery. If the fracture is comminuted, comes with obvious misalignment, and also involves the joint surface, then surgical treatment should be considered. Conservative treatment under these circumstances might result in certain disabilities, thus surgery is recommended.

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Written by Li Jie

Orthopedics

36sec

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Does a rib fracture hurt?

The rib area is rich in nerves, and the human body has a total of 24 ribs, so there are more than 20 intercostal nerves. Therefore, the local pain is very obvious after a rib fracture. The pain may become apparent with breathing and movements of the thoracic cage. Sometimes, especially when changing body positions, the pain can be very significant. Occasionally, coughing, sneezing, or performing other actions that increase abdominal pressure can cause marked pain. Thus, the pain from a rib fracture is quite pronounced and very severe.

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Written by Lv Yao

Orthopedics

42sec

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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 Wang Cheng Lin

Orthopedics

59sec

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What are the symptoms of a fracture?

After a fracture, three characteristic manifestations occur. The first one is abnormal movement. This abnormal movement is due to the formation of an unusual activity of the fracture ends in the affected limb, known as abnormal movement. The second one is called deformity, which is also due to a significant deformity in the affected limb after the fracture ends. The third one is called bone crepitus, also known as bone rubbing sound, which is the sound produced when the fracture ends rub against each other. These three are specific signs of a fracture. In addition to these three, there will also be severe pain in the affected limb, and this pain is very intense, rendering the limb immobile. Secondly, there will be obvious swelling, which is caused by bleeding in the medullary cavity of the fracture ends. The third is functional impairment, as the affected limb will definitely be immobile after the fracture.

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Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

55sec

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Principles of Fracture Treatment

Usually, the treatment principles for patients after a fracture are mainly reflected in the following aspects: First, it is necessary to actively reposition displaced fractures, as continuously misplaced fractures can easily lead to nonunion or malunion later on. It is crucial to actively perform manual repositioning or consider open reduction and internal fixation surgery. Second, strict rest and immobilization must be adhered to, as these provide the best conditions for fracture healing. During the treatment period, patients can take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory analgesics and medications that promote fracture healing. Third, once callus formation begins in the later stages, diligent functional exercises are necessary. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor)