How long will a bone fracture hurt?

Written by Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
Updated on September 17, 2024
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Regarding the question of how long the pain from a fracture lasts, in general, patients with fractures are usually in the fibrous connection phase about two weeks after the incident, at which point the fracture ends become relatively stable. This means there is no longer movement at the fracture ends that can irritate nearby nerves. Therefore, the pain usually starts to alleviate after about two weeks. Additionally, for early intense pain from the fracture, oral pain relievers can be taken to ease the patient's symptoms. Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure that the fracture site is well-rested and protected, as this is the best condition for the healing of the fracture. If immobilization is not strictly adhered to, premature activity or local muscle strain might occur, which could potentially lead to a misalignment at the fracture site.

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Written by Wang Cheng Lin
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Symptoms of a fractured ankle

For patients with ankle fractures, the main symptoms are swelling, pain, limited mobility, and significant tenderness upon pressing. There may also be a sensation and sound of bone rubbing together. Typically, a straightforward X-ray is sufficient to make a clear diagnosis. In cases of ankle fractures without displacement, an active conservative treatment is generally recommended. This usually involves strict immobilization with a plaster cast, elevating the affected limb to facilitate venous return and reduce swelling. Medications that improve blood circulation and promote bone healing are used in treatment. Normally, the treatment period is about one and a half months. With follow-up X-rays showing bone callus formation, the plaster can be removed and exercises to strengthen the ankle joint can be commenced.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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What should not be eaten with a bone fracture?

Patients with bone fractures should avoid consuming spicy and stimulating foods such as chili peppers, as well as high-fat, high-calorie foods like fatty meats, cream, barbecue, and fried foods. They should also avoid high-sugar foods like various sweet treats with high sugar content, and overly salty foods, as these can be detrimental to the healing of fractures. Additionally, it is advised that patients with bone fractures should not smoke or drink alcohol. Following a fracture, it is beneficial to include more high-quality protein and vitamin-rich foods in their diet, such as milk, eggs, beans, chicken, fish, various fresh vegetables, and fruits, as these foods are favorable for the recovery of bone fractures.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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What is the best treatment for a bone fracture?

A bone fissure, also known as a crack fracture, involves only a cortical crack, with no significant compromise to the bone's firmness and stability. Therefore, conservative treatment can be chosen for a crack fracture, using supports or external fixation to promote healing and recovery of the fracture. However, during the external fixation process, it is crucial to monitor the limb's blood circulation and sensation to prevent symptoms associated with high pressure in the basement membrane.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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Will a bone fracture cause swelling?

A bone fissure is actually a type of fracture. It refers to the occurrence of a fissure fracture in the cortex of the bone, but the stability of the bone remains intact. A bone fissure can also present symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, and restricted movement. Following a bone fissure, there will be localized bleeding, and the surrounding soft tissues may also be damaged, contributing to swelling. Therefore, in the early stages of a bone fissure, it is advisable to immobilize and rest the affected area. Cold compresses can be applied to reduce local blood flow, thereby easing bleeding and alleviating swelling.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Symptoms of bone fracture

Bone fracture, as the name suggests, is a type of fracture characterized by a crack in the bone. Since it is a fracture, it shares all the common characteristics of fractures. Firstly, there is pain. The pain at the site of the bone fracture is very evident. Secondly, there is swelling. Local swelling should also be very apparent. Although it might be less severe than general displaced fractures, it is more pronounced than the swelling from soft tissue contusions. Thirdly, there is limited functionality. After a bone fracture, due to severe pain, sometimes, as the continuity of the bone is interrupted, the lever action of the bone may be reduced or lost, hence, the patient's limb movement will be restricted. Additionally, fractures have two characteristic complications: abnormal movement, and bone crepitus or bone friction sensation. Another possible sign is deformity. However, because patients with bone cracks often do not have noticeable displacement, deformity is not significant. However, during a physical examination of the patient, bone crepitus or bone friction sensation might be detectable. Yet, due to the lack of significant displacement, it is not necessary to forcefully elicit these signs. In cases where there is evident pain, swelling, and restricted activity, bone fracture should be suspected and it is advised that the patient should promptly visit a hospital for radiographic confirmation to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.