Post-fracture sequelae

Written by Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
Updated on September 21, 2024
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For the sequelae of bone fractures, usually, patients who have sustained a fracture will not have sequelae if they actively cooperate with treatment. However, if treatment is improper, a series of sequelae can easily occur, with the most common manifestations being the following.

First, after the fracture, if there is no active and strict attention to rest, protection, and immobilization, later muscle traction can cause displacement at the site of the fracture, leading to deformity healing and affecting the patient's normal function.

Second, after a fracture, due to prolonged inactivity, the joints may become stiff and the muscles may contract. When it becomes possible to exercise later, patients may exercise insufficiently due to fear of pain, resulting in very poor joint mobility, which affects the normal function of the patient.

Third, for fractures in some special areas, such as a femoral tibial fracture, this may lead to avascular necrosis of the femoral head in patients.

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Written by Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
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How long will a bone fracture hurt?

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 Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
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How to care for a bone fracture?

For patients with bone fractures, it is fortunate if there is no displacement. They must strictly use orthopedic casts or splints for external fixation. This effectively prevents the possibility of displacement at the fracture site and aids in the healing of the fracture. For patients with significant swelling, try to elevate the affected limb to facilitate venous return and reduce swelling. Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving drugs, drugs that promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis, and drugs that promote fracture healing is appropriate. In terms of diet, nutrition should be enhanced, and spicy and irritating foods should be avoided, as well as smoking and alcohol, as these can affect the healing of fractures.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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Can a bone fracture heal by itself?

A bone fissure is actually a type of fracture where there is a crack in the cortical bone, but the stability of the bone is maintained. Symptoms of a bone fissure can include pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Therefore, it should be treated like a fracture, for example, by properly immobilizing and resting the area which can promote the healing of the fracture. As long as proper immobilization and rest are ensured, a bone fissure can heal on its own. However, it is crucial to monitor the blood supply around the fracture and the swelling to avoid symptoms of compartment syndrome. It is also important to pay attention to the joints at the distal end of the affected limb to prevent joint stiffness after prolonged immobilization.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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Is the bone fracture serious?

A hairline fracture refers to a crack in the bone that does not involve significant displacement, making it relatively less severe compared to other fractures. However, hairline fractures still require active treatment. For treating a hairline fracture, it is possible to use plaster casts or braces for protection and stabilization. Typically, protection is needed for about four to six weeks to effectively aid recovery. During the recovery period of a hairline fracture, it is important to focus on a nutritious diet, incorporating foods rich in high-quality protein, calcium, and vitamins. Additionally, anti-inflammatory painkillers and traditional Chinese medicines that promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis can be used to facilitate the healing of the fracture. After the removal of the stabilizing device, it is crucial to promptly engage in functional rehabilitation exercises to improve joint function and promote recovery.

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Written by Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
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Can you move with a bone fracture?

Patients with fractures must absolutely avoid activity, as premature movement before callus formation can impede the growth of the fracture and even lead to the possibility of misalignment at the fracture site, which would be problematic. To promote quick recovery from a fracture, it is essential to rigorously use supports, plaster casts, or splints for external fixation. Only after callus formation can the external fixation be removed. Then, heat washing can be used to strengthen joint flexion and extension movements to restore normal joint mobility and, thereby, normal function in the patient.