How to treat an old fracture?

Written by Wang Cheng Lin
Orthopedics
Updated on September 10, 2024
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The concept of a bone fissure refers to a condition where the bone is not completely broken but is partially cracked, known as a fissure. The treatment for a bone fissure generally involves plaster fixation, typically for a duration of four to six weeks. However, an old injury refers to a chronic fissure that has been present for three weeks or more. If the fissure is three weeks old, it should continue to be immobilized with plaster, avoiding weight-bearing walking and activities. Plaster fixation can gradually allow the fracture ends to heal. If after four to six weeks, or even two months, the fracture ends have not healed, further surgical treatment may be required.

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Written by Li Jin
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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 Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Can a fracture be moved?

Bone fractures, as the name suggests, refers to a crack-like fracture in a bone. Although it is a simple fracture and the bones are not obviously displaced, maintaining proper alignment is still important. However, a fracture does represent a change in the continuity of the bone. If effective repositioning and fixation are not carried out, displacement of the fracture can occur. Therefore, it is generally advised for patients to use a cast or a brace for external fixation. If the patient moves frequently without effective fixation, the crack fracture may develop into a displaced fracture. Once a displacement occurs, it can become complicated, potentially requiring surgical treatment. Therefore, patients with bone fractures are advised to rest and avoid vigorous activities, and to ensure effective repositioning and fixation.

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Written by Lv Yao
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Can I apply heat to a bone fracture?

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 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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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.