Over 6 million people in the United States break a bone each year. From a slip on an icy sidewalk to a sports-related impact, fractures can happen to anyone at any time. The sudden pain and swelling can be alarming, leaving you to wonder if the injury is a simple sprain or something more serious.
At Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates (GPOA), our specialists provide comprehensive, state-of-the-art orthopaedic care to patients throughout the Pittsburgh metro area. As the oldest continuously operating orthopaedic surgery practice in the city, we have the experience and skill to accurately diagnose and treat your injury, helping you get back to your life without pain. If you suspect you have a fracture, don't wait. Schedule an appointment with our team today.
Let's explore the key signs and symptoms that can help you determine if you have a broken bone.
Common Symptoms of Fractures
A broken bone, or fracture, can present a range of symptoms depending on its location and severity. While some signs are obvious, others can be subtle. Here are the most common indicators of a fracture.
- Sudden, Sharp Pain: Most fractures cause immediate and intense pain at the site of the injury. The pain may worsen with movement or when pressure is applied to the area.
- Swelling and Bruising: The body’s natural response to a fracture is to send blood and fluids to the area, causing noticeable swelling. Bruising or discoloration of the skin around the injury is also a very common sign.
- Visible Deformity: A clear sign of a fracture is when a limb or joint appears out of place, bent at an unusual angle, or misshapen. In severe cases, the bone may even break through the skin, which is a medical emergency.
- Difficulty Moving or Bearing Weight: You may find it difficult or impossible to move the injured limb. If the injury is in your leg or foot, you will likely be unable to put weight on it without significant pain.
- Audible Snap or Grinding Sound: Some people report hearing a snapping or cracking sound at the moment of injury. You might also feel a grinding or grating sensation if you attempt to move the injured area.
How Fractures Differ from Sprains or Bruises
It can be hard to tell the difference between a broken bone, a sprain, and a bruise since they all cause pain and swelling. Here are the key distinctions:
- A sprain is an injury to ligaments, the tissues that connect bones in a joint. While painful, a sprain won’t cause a visible bone deformity.
- A bruise happens when small blood vessels under the skin break, causing discoloration and tenderness. The pain is usually more superficial than the deep, sharp pain of a fracture.
Because symptoms often overlap, a professional medical diagnosis is the only way to be sure what kind of injury you have.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While some minor injuries can be managed at home, a suspected fracture always requires medical evaluation. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- The pain is severe, uncontrolled, or getting worse.
- There is a clear deformity in the bone or joint.
- The bone has pierced the skin (an open fracture).
- The injured area is numb, tingling, or has a bluish color, which could indicate nerve damage or a lack of blood flow.
- You cannot move or put any weight on the injured limb.
Delaying treatment can lead to complications, such as improper healing, long-term pain, or loss of function. It's always best to err on the side of caution and consult an orthopaedic specialist.
Diagnostic Tools Used to Confirm a Fracture
At Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates, we use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately identify the location and severity of a fracture.
- X-rays: This is the most common and effective method for diagnosing broken bones. X-rays provide clear images of the bones, allowing our specialists to see the break and determine the best course of treatment.
- CT Scans: A Computed Tomography (CT) scan creates detailed, cross-sectional images of the bone. We may use a CT scan for more complex fractures or to get a better view of injuries involving joints.
- MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is used to create detailed images of both bones and the surrounding soft tissues, like ligaments and cartilage. An MRI is particularly useful for assessing any associated damage around the fracture site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you move a broken bone?
Yes, sometimes, especially with small cracks. However, movement will be painful and is not recommended. Don't rule out a fracture based on mobility alone.
How long does a broken bone take to heal?
Healing time varies greatly depending on the fracture type, location, your age, and overall health. Minor fractures heal in weeks, severe ones in months. Your orthopaedic specialist will provide an accurate timeline.
What should I do if I suspect a fracture?
Stop activity immediately. Protect and immobilize the injured area, apply a cold pack, and seek prompt medical evaluation for diagnosis and treatment.
Don’t Let a Fracture Go Untreated
Recognizing the signs of a fracture is the first step toward proper healing and recovery. Our dedicated team at Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates is here to provide the expert diagnosis and personalized treatment you need to heal correctly and regain your mobility.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a broken bone, schedule an appointment for comprehensive orthopaedic care at one of our convenient locations. Let the specialists at GPOA help you on your path to recovery.
