Fractures Specialist

What are fractures?

Fractures are broken bones. A break can appear as a crack in a bone or a bone that splits into two or more pieces. The treatment for broken bones depends on the type and severity of the break. It’s important to see your doctor at the first sign of a broken bone to have it treated properly.

What are the symptoms of fractures?

Signs and symptoms of fractures include:

• Immediate pain
• Swelling
• Redness
• Bruising
• Obvious bone deformities
• Limited range of motion
• Decreased mobility

Pain associated with fractures could be severe. Your doctor lets you know which type of fracture you have and how severe it is before developing an effective treatment plan. 

What are the risk factors for fractures?

Anyone can experience a bone fracture, but some factors increase your risk. Examples include:

• Low bone density
• Osteoporosis
• Car accidents 
• Contact sports
• Repetitive forces
• Falls
• Certain jobs

Sometimes, the cause of a fracture isn’t clear. Your risk of broken bones usually increases with older age.

How does my doctor diagnose fractures?

To find out if you have a fracture, and which type you have, the Chicago Surgical Clinic team discusses your symptoms, evaluates painful areas of your body, and often recommends imaging procedures. Examples include X-rays, bone scans, CT scans, MRIs, or other images to gain an in-depth picture of your bone health.

How are fractures treated?

Treatments for fractures available at Chicago Surgical Clinic include:

Casts or splints

Wearing a cast or splint protects your bones and limits movement while a fracture heals. Your provider might first wrap the injury before placing a splint on it. After the healing process, your specialist removes splints or casts.

Traction

Traction uses weights and pulleys to stretch tendons and muscles surrounding a broken bone to promote healing and keep the bones properly aligned.

Surgery

Surgery allows your orthopedic specialist to repair a severe fracture and hold bones in place to ensure they heal properly. Your specialist first numbs the treatment area so you don’t feel any pain and offers medicine to help you relax or fall asleep during the procedure. 

At the first sign of fractures, call the Chicago Surgical Clinic office or schedule an appointment online today.