Broken Bones in the Limbs

A broken or cracked bone is a fracture. Bones can be broken cross-wise, lengthwise, in the middle. There are several types of fractures. In a simple fracture the bone is broken in one place; in a comminuted fracture the bone is broken in three or more places and there are bone fragments; in a displace fracture the pieces of bone have been pushed out of alignment. The soft tissue that surrounds the bone may also be injured in a fracture. In a closed fracture the skin is not torn; in an open fracture the tissue surrounding the bone is injured, the skin is torn, and the bone may protrude through the skin. 

Causes

Fractures can be caused by traumatic injuries such as falls, collisions in sports, vehicle accidents. Diseases such as osteoporosis can weaken bones and increase the risk for fractures.

Symptoms

Sometimes it is possible to use a bone that is fractured (such a walking on a foot that has a broken bone). If you think you may have fractured a bone, see you healthcare provider. A fracture may show one or more of the following symptoms:

• Tenderness over the bone

• Shooting pain

• Visible deformity

• Increased pain with movement

• Bone protruding through the skin

First Aid

Applying a rigid splint: Use a board or similar object to immobilize a broken limb. Be careful not to cut off circulation by tying too tight. Check for feeling, warmth and color.

Applying a soft splint: Use a blanket, pillow or similar soft object to support the injured area. Check for feeling, warmth and color.

• Apply ice packs to the injury. For open fractures, use clean(sterile whenever possible), preferably white, wrappings, . Immediately applying cold will help decrease swelling and inflammation. If you think there may be a broken bone, protect and rest the injured limb immediately. To rest a bone effectively, immobilize the joint above and below the suspected fracture.

• If you suspect a fracture, immobilize it to prevent further injury until treatment is completed. If possible, keep the limb in the same position. A fracture can be immobilized by wrapping something around the injured limb or fixing the limb to some other part of the person's body (this is called splinting). It is best to immobilize the joint above and below the injured area. Magazines, cardboard, or rolled newspaper can be used as a splint. Do not wrap too tightly or circulation will be cut off. A limb that cannot be used at all is probably broken and should be seen by a doctor.

• Minutes and hours are not crucial unless the limb is crooked, arteries or nerves are injured, or the injury is causing great pain. A fractured limb that is protected and rested is likely to mend well, even if casting or splinting is delayed.