How to recognize a bone fracture? Let's be aware of these symptoms!

Imagine that you slipped and fell while playing cricket, running around the house, or going down the stairs. The severe pain that you feel in your arm or leg at that time... Maybe it's not just a bruise, it could also be a broken bone . So today, let's talk about what the symptoms are when a bone fracture, or as we call it, a broken bone ( Fracture ), occurs, and what to do at that time. This is something we all need to know, because accidents don't happen overnight.

What are the main symptoms of a fracture?

When a bone breaks, each person experiences symptoms differently. It depends on the type of accident, the type of bone broken, and the nature of the break. But in general, there are a few main symptoms that we can see. Let's take a look at what they are.

Why do bones break like this? Is it always a fall that causes it?

Most of the time, we think of broken bones as a result of a traumatic event, such as a fall, a car accident, or a sports accident. Yes, that is the main reason. But sometimes, bones can break without such a major accident. Let's take a look at that too.

1. Pathologic Fractures

Simply put, this means that bones are weakened by another medical condition and can break with even the slightest force . Think of it like a piece of wood that has been eaten by termites and can break with even a small crack. There are several diseases that can cause this.

• Osteoporosis : This is the most common cause. As we age, especially in women after menopause, our bones become less dense, thinner, and less strong. Even a loud sneeze or a slight slip when getting out of bed can increase the risk of breaking a bone in the hip , spine, or wrist .
• Cancer : Some types of cancer can spread to the bones, causing the bones to weaken and break. There are also types of cancer that start in the bones themselves.
• Other medical conditions: Certain infections and genetic diseases that affect the bones can also weaken the bones and cause a 'pathologic fracture'.

2. Stress Fractures

This is often seen in people who perform the same type of movement over a long period of time, such as athletes and soldiers. When the same bone is repeatedly stressed over a long period of time, tiny, hairline cracks can develop in that bone. These can be difficult to detect with a regular X-ray.

What should I do if I suspect a broken bone?

This is the most important part. If you have even the slightest suspicion that you or someone you know has a broken bone, treat it as a medical emergency. Never leave it at home and rub it with oil, or go to the village doctor to have it fixed. Doing so will only make the damage worse.

What to do immediately:

1. Calm down: There's no point in panicking. Calm the patient down.

2. Do not move the injured part: Keep the broken arm or leg as still as possible. Do not try to straighten it or stretch it. Doing so can cause serious damage to blood vessels, nerves, or muscles from the broken bone ends.

3. Immediately to a hospital: Take the patient to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) as soon as possible. It is very important to keep the injured part immobile during the journey.

At the hospital, the doctors will perform the necessary tests (often an X-ray) to determine exactly whether there is a fracture and what its nature is, and then begin the necessary treatment. This can range from applying a plaster cast to surgery if necessary. Therefore, it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible.