Dealing With Bone Injuries: Symptoms of Fracture

Suffering an injury is never fun. It's even worse when you are not sure what is causing the pain. This is often the case when dealing with a possible bone fracture. In fact, it can be hard to distinguish between bone bruises and fractures. Both types of injuries produce similar types of symptoms. However, there are some noteworthy signs that indicate that a fracture is at the root of the injury.

An Onset of Swelling

It is very common to experience swelling around a broken or fractured bone. When a bone breaks the tissue around it becomes inflamed. This is due to blood and fluid leakage from the bone's interior. Hematoma can occur when leaked blood builds up in the tissues. Since swelling can occur for many reasons it is important to note the time it begins. If it coincides with the injury it probably indicates that there is a fracture in the bone.

Severe Bruising

Anytime you suffer a blow to the skin it's likely that bruising is present. The extent of the bruising can help you determine if a bone fracture lurks below. Bruising, or discoloration of the skin, points to some type of tissue damage. Yet, when the discoloration covers a large area of skin it usually means there is a fracture. Only an x-ray will be able to confirm a fracture. Your doctor will likely use digital radiology and PACS to obtain a proper diagnosis.

Popping or Crackling Sensations

If you feel or hear popping or grating movements under the skin it could be a fracture. This medical term for this type of sensation is crepitus. It is caused by fragments of bone rubbing together. This is the most common sign that a bone's continuity is damaged. Anytime you experience crepitus it is wise to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Pain Accompanies Movement

Pain results from any type of injury. However, when dealing with a fracture you may experience three separate stages of pain. Immediately after the injury you will likely have a very acute sense of pain from the fresh injury. A couple of weeks into the injury you will feel some sort of sub-acute pain that signifies the damage is healing. After the fracture has healed you can continue to experience chronic pain while the bone fully restores itself. It can take six to eight weeks to reach the third stage of pain.

Bone Protruding From the Skin

If the fracture has broken through skin you can be sure it is not mere bruising. Doctors refer to this type of fracture as a compound fracture. With such a fracture the bone and tissues become exposed to external elements. As such, compound fractures are likely to become infected by environmental pathogens. Thus, it is important to seek medical treatment right away to realign, immobilize, and cover the open fracture.

Misshapen Limbs

When fractures occur in the limbs it's not uncommon to notice a change in the shape. Deformities may show up as bumps or protrusions. This type of change usually means that the bone is not in its correct position. It may also mean that there is a serious dislocation of the bone. Either way, you should seek medical treatment as quickly as you can.

What To Do About Fractures

Most fractures will not require an emergency room visit. Emergency visits are only recommended for dislocations or compound fractures. They may also be necessary in cases of unbearable pain. However, many patients suffering from a fracture can wait for an appointment with their primary care physician. If you decide to go the appointment route make sure to immobilize the affected area and to apply hot compresses. This will keep you as comfortable as possible until a physician can provide the appropriate treatment.