Can I apply heat to a bone fracture?

Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
Updated on September 02, 2024
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Bone fissures clinically are referred to as hairline fractures, which are cracks appearing in the bone cortex. However, the stability of the bone still exists, and conservative treatment can be chosen, utilizing limb supports or plaster for external fixation to facilitate the healing of the fracture. During the acute phase of the bone condition, we do not recommend applying heat, but suggest cold compresses instead, to reduce bleeding and alleviate swelling. After the acute phase, appropriate heat application can be considered to promote circulation around the area, thereby aiding the healing of the fracture fissures and the fracture itself.

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

Usually, for patients with bone fractures, it takes about one to two weeks of pain. This is because as time goes on, the local area enters the fibrous connection phase, which offers better stability, so the pain gradually subsides. For early-stage pain symptoms, if they are unbearable, one can still choose to treat them with medication. For instance, applying topical ointments that invigorate blood circulation and dissipate stasis, taking oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving drugs, and administering pain relief injections can all alleviate the pain symptoms of patients with bone fractures. Additionally, for patients with fractures, promoting rapid recovery of the fracture is very crucial, and strict rest and protection are key. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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Will a bone fracture be painful?

A bone fissure is actually a type of fracture, which refers to a fracture where there is a crack in the cortical bone, but the stability of the bone remains intact. Symptoms of a bone fissure include pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Treatment for a bone fissure should follow the same protocols as for fractures, such as appropriate immobilization, early local cold compresses to reduce swelling, and alleviating the severity of pain and swelling. Therefore, pain is present when a bone fissure occurs, as it is a type of fracture. During treatment, it is important to monitor for disturbances in sensory and blood circulation in the limbs, particularly the extremities. Sometimes, a bone fissure can cause increased local swelling, leading to sensory and circulation disturbances in the extremities. In such cases, observation is crucial, and it is advisable to seek treatment at an orthopedic department in a reputable hospital if a bone fissure occurs.

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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 Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
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Can a fracture be moved?

First, it is important to clarify that once a fracture is detected, it is absolutely imperative not to move. Because if you engage in activities too soon, it might affect the growth of the fracture and could even lead to misalignment at the fracture site, so it is absolutely crucial for patients with fractures not to move. To promote quick recovery of the fracture, it is vital to strictly rest, immobilize the affected area, and protect it. Typically, treatment involves actively using plaster casts or splints for external fixation, applying non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers, and using medications that promote fracture healing. Dietary needs should include appropriately enhanced nutrition, and it is necessary to refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol, and avoid spicy and stimulating foods. (Specific medication use should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.)

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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.