Proper Care For Fractured (Broken) Bones
If you’ve broken a bone, whether it’s been a partial or complete fracture, proper care is important if you want the bone to heal on time.
When you break a bone, your physician will fit you with a cast. The cast holds the broken bones in place so you will heal properly. Depending on the severity of the break, other types of treatments your doctor may use are splints, pins or other devices to keep broken bones aligned while they heal.
When you are first fitted for a cast, it’s important to keep swelling to a minimum during the first 24 to 72 hours. I advise keeping the broken limb elevated to allow fluids to drain “downhill” to your heart. Pillows and recliners are great for elevating limbs.
The length of time for a bone to heal depends on the severity of the fracture and how well you follow your physician’s advice. Typically, your broken bone will heal within four to 10 weeks, but healing time also varies according to which bone is broken.
After a cast is removed, you will need time to rehabilitate your muscles and ease into normal activities. The muscles surrounding the broken bone will be weak since they have not been used. Your physician will work with you on rehab exercises and let you know when you can resume all normal activities.
Tags: Bone and Joint Health, Bone health, Broken bones, Dr. Steven Kimberly, Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville
