A fracture, or a broken bone, is a condition that necessitates immediate medical attention. Fractures can occur in any bone in the body due to high-force impact, stress, or medical conditions that weaken the bones.
Dr. Ulric Bigby, a prominent orthopedic surgeon, specializes in diagnosing and treating fractures, particularly those related to the hip and knee.
A fracture is a partial or complete break in a bone. It can occur due to various reasons, from high-impact traumas like car accidents and long falls to overuse, resulting in stress fractures. In older individuals or those with weakened bones due to medical conditions like osteoporosis, a fracture might occur with very little impact.
The symptoms of a fracture can vary depending on the location, severity, and the individual's age and general health. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, inability to move the affected area, and protrusion of the area at an unusual angle. In more severe cases, symptoms may include dizziness, fainting, and nausea.
Aging is a significant risk factor as bones become thinner and weaker over time, increasing the risk of fractures. Conditions like osteoporosis that weaken the bones also increase fracture risk. Women, particularly postmenopausal women, have a higher risk owing to diminished estrogen production, which plays a role in bone health.
Fractures can occur in various forms, including:
All these types of fractures require immediate medical attention and proper treatment.
Diagnosing a fracture involves a physical examination and a detailed inquiry about the circumstances that led to the injury. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may also be necessary to assess the fracture fully.
The primary goal of fracture treatment is to ensure optimal future function by providing the injured bone with the best circumstances for healing.
Dr. Ulric Bigby adopts a comprehensive approach to fracture management, considering your overall health, fracture type and location, and your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies.
In cases of stable fractures, immobilization for several weeks may be sufficient. A cast or splint may be applied to prevent movement and keep the bones in place while they heal.
For fractures involving displacement or other complications like dislocations or open wounds, surgery may be necessary. The surgical procedure may involve realigning the knee and removing any unnecessary bone fragments or fully replacing the joint.
Dr. Bigby pays particular attention to hip and knee fractures. These fractures can occur due to direct falls, high-impact collisions, or from underlying conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis.
A hip fracture is a break in the femur (thigh bone), where it meets the pelvic bone. It's a significant injury that requires immediate medical attention. The majority of hip fractures happen to people over 60, where a simple fall is the most common cause.
A knee fracture involves damage to the patella (knee cap) bone at the front of the knee. It can range in severity from a mild hairline fracture to a completely shattered bone that damages surrounding tissues.
Recovery from a fracture may take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the fracture and if there are any complications, such as a blood supply problem or an infection. After the bone has healed, physical therapy may be necessary to restore muscle strength and mobility to the affected area.
Dr. Ulric Bigby and his team provide personalized treatment plans and rehabilitation programs to ensure patients regain mobility and return to their normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.
Preventing a fracture is better than treating one. Here are a few tips you can follow to help prevent fractures, especially as you age:
Fractures are serious injuries that require immediate medical attention. Dr. Ulric Bigby, with his extensive expertise in treating hip and knee fractures, ensures patients receive comprehensive care to achieve optimal recovery and improved quality of life.
Dr. Ulric Bigby is a top-rated orthopedic surgeon who can treat your hip or knee fracture and provide comprehensive treatment options.
Schedule your consultation online or get in touch with Dr. Bigby at one of his three locations:
