Fracture or breaking of one or more bones in the body is due to injury, pressure or impact. Fractures are one of the most common problems in the field of orthopedics (the science of treating bone and joint defects). A fracture can be simple and small, where there is only a small crack in the bone, or it can be a more complex fracture where the bone is broken and different parts of the bone are involved.
Fractures can occur due to accidents, trauma, strong pressure, improper use of muscles and bones, sports injuries, and in some cases, genetic defects. Also, some factors such as bone diseases (such as osteoporosis) and lack of vitamins and minerals can also increase the risk of fracture.
The treatment of fractures depends on various factors such as the location and severity of the fracture, the type of injured bone, the age and function of the person. Bone healing may occur naturally or may require medical intervention. Treatment of fractures may include the use of casts or bandages, the use of orthopedic equipment (such as metal devices to hold the bone), surgery, and physical therapy.
The most important step to treat fractures is consultation and examination by an orthopedic specialist. He can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the right treatment plan for you.
What are the possible symptoms of a fracture?
The symptoms of a fracture may vary according to the type and severity of the fracture, the location of the injury, and the affected person. But in general, some common signs and symptoms of fractures include:
1. Severe pain: A person may feel severe pain at the fracture site. This pain may worsen when moving, pressing or touching the fracture site.
2. Swelling and redness: swelling and redness usually occur at the fracture site. This may be caused by inflammation and the body’s response to injury.
3. Limitation in movement: a person may lose the ability to move normally at the fracture site, and if the bone is severed, the injured part may move abnormally.
4. Inability to bear weight: In some fractures, the affected person cannot put weight on the injured member and if he tries, he feels more pain.
5. Abnormal shape: In some fractures, the injured part may have an abnormal or curved shape. This may be a sign of a fracture.
In any case, for an accurate and definitive diagnosis of a fracture, it is better to visit an orthopedic specialist and undergo an examination and appropriate diagnostic tests.
Diagnostic methods to detect fractures in the knee or bones
To diagnose a fracture, the doctor may use the following diagnostic methods and tests:
1. History of the disease and physical examination: the doctor tries to collect the necessary information by reviewing the history of the disease and describing the symptoms and the reason for the visit, along with the physical examination of the suspected fracture site.
2. X-rays: X-rays are one of the most common methods for diagnosing fractures. This test creates images of the bones that help the doctor determine the location of the fracture, the type of fracture, and its severity.
3. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): In some cases, MRI is used to more accurately diagnose the fracture and examine soft tissues such as ligaments and muscles. This test creates more detailed images of the inside of the body.
4. Bone scan (DEXA): If the fracture is suspected to be a bone defect, the doctor may consider a bone scan (DEXA). This test measures bone density and detects bone damage.
Also, the doctor may use other tests such as CT scan, ultrasound and blood tests (to check factors related to bones) depending on the specific conditions and needs.
A combination of the above tests and examinations can help the doctor diagnose the fracture and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Care after knee or bone fracture surgery
Care after fracture surgery depends on the type of fracture, the location of the injury, the type of surgery and the doctor’s orders. But in general, care after fracture surgery includes:
1. Following the doctor’s orders: After the surgery, the doctor will have special orders for you. The most important executive compliance includes taking medicines on time and carefully, observing rest and restricting movement, using toys, and endogamous placement (cast) or proper dressing.
2. Pain control: Your doctor may prescribe pain medication to control your pain. It’s important to follow medication directions carefully and talk to your doctor about additional medications or changes in treatment if you need more pain relief.
3. Surgical care: Depending on the type of fracture and the type of surgery, you may need care and access to the wound. It is very important to follow the doctor’s instructions about changing the dressing, washing the wound area, using a wound protector and avoiding contact with water or contaminated materials.
4. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises: Your doctor may refer you to a physiotherapist to determine rehabilitation and restorative exercises for you. These exercises include gentle movements, strengthening muscles, increasing range of motion and improving balance. It is very important to follow the physiotherapist’s instructions and medical orders in doing exercises.
5. Healthy nutrition: Taking care of a healthy and balanced diet is very important to improve and speed up the healing process. Consuming food rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals is recommended. Also, it is very important to drink enough fluids to maintain the general health of the body and the health of bones and tissues.
6. Medical follow-up and referrals: It is important to follow medical orders carefully and refer to all scheduled appointments and referrals. You should tell your doctor if you have any problems, adverse symptoms, or unusual changes.
It should be noted that care after fracture surgery is different according to the conditions and characteristics of each individual.
What kind of food should I eat to recover after fracture surgery?
The following foods can speed up recovery after fracture surgery and promote the healing process:
1. Proteins: Consuming enough proteins is very important for healing and repairing damaged tissues. Good sources of protein include fish, chicken, lean red meat, eggs, low-fat dairy, soy, beans, and peas.
2. Foods containing vitamin C: Vitamin C plays an important role in tissue repair and collagen production. Consuming fruits such as oranges, strawberries, tangerines, cherries, raspberries and vegetables such as cauliflower and bell peppers are useful sources of vitamin C.
3. Foods containing vitamin D and calcium: Vitamin D and calcium are very important for bone health. Calcium sources include low-fat dairy products, tartare vegetables, small fish such as sardines and mackerel, and vitamin D sources include fatty fish such as salmon and sardines, eggs, and vitamin D-enriched products.
4. Foods containing zinc: Zinc plays an important role in improving and strengthening the body’s immune system. Good sources of zinc include lean red meat, fish, nuts, and fiber-rich grains such as oats and whole wheat.
5. Foods containing iron: iron helps to produce hemoglobin and improve oxygen supply to tissues. Rich sources of iron include lean red meat, fish, chicken, beans, lentils, and whole grains such as brown rice and whole wheat.
6. Foods containing fiber: Eating foods containing fiber helps to improve digestion and absorption of nutrients, and being in a natural environment helps. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans are good sources of fiber.
7. Proper hydration: Caring for the yellowness of recovery after fracture surgery requires special foods. Below are some important points for recovery after fracture surgery:
– Proteins: consuming food containing protein is important for repairing damaged tissues and increasing bone structure. Protein sources include fish, white meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, seeds, and nuts.
– Vitamin C: This vitamin helps repair tissues and increases collagen production. Fruits such as oranges, berries, tangerines and vegetables such as broccoli and bell peppers are good sources of vitamin C.
– Vitamin D and calcium: this vitamin and mineral are essential for bone health. Fatty fish such as sardines and salmon, eggs, low-fat milk and dairy products, tartaric green vegetables, and vitamin D-enriched products are good sources of these substances.
– Foods containing zinc: Zinc is essential for strengthening the body’s immune system and improving the healing process. Lean red meat, fish, nuts and seeds such as oats and whole wheat are good sources of zinc.
– Foods containing iron: Iron helps to produce blood and increase muscle strength. Lean red meat, fish, beans, lentils and whole grains are good sources of iron.
– Foods containing fiber: Eating foods containing fiber such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans will help you have a better digestive process and speed up tissue repair.
– Hydration: Taking care of the amount of fluids and proper hydration is important for recovery. Drinking water, non-sugary drinks and eating fruits and vegetables that have a lot of water can help.
Common painkillers to reduce bone pain
After bone fracture surgery, your doctor may prescribe pain medications to reduce pain. Below are some of the common pain relievers that are commonly used to control pain after bone fracture surgery:
1. Analgesics (antides): This category includes drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and celecoxib. In addition to reducing pain, analgesics also help reduce inflammation and swelling.
2. Steroids: Steroids, such as prednisolone and Decadron, have strong anti-inflammatory properties and can be effective in reducing pain after bone fracture surgery.
3. Aspirin-related analgesics: Medicines such as aspirin and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), which fall under the category of non-steroidal analgesics (NSAIDs), can be useful in reducing pain and inflammation.
4. Weaker analgesics: Medicines such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) can be helpful in reducing bone pain. Due to their analgesic properties and lack of anti-inflammatory properties, these drugs are usually used in the treatment of bone fracture pain in addition to other drugs.
It is important to always follow your doctor’s orders and take the medications carefully and according to the instructions and restrictions specified by your doctor. Also, any side effects or concerns should be reported to your doctor.
Knee and joint care methods against fractures
Knee and joint care is very important and can help reduce the risk of fractures and keep them healthy. Below, I mention some care methods for knees and joints:
1. Regular exercise: Regular and appropriate exercise can strengthen the muscles around the knee and joints and increase their strength. Exercises such as walking, swimming, cycling and strengthening exercises around the knee can be helpful. Also, protective and strengthening skills such as balance and strengthening exercises also help to protect knees and joints.
2. Balanced weight: maintaining a healthy and appropriate weight for the body reduces extra pressure on the knees and joints. Excess weight can increase stress and pressure on knees and joints and increase the risk of fractures. If needed, consulting a nutritionist can help you follow a healthy and appropriate diet plan.
3. Use of support devices: If you have knee or joint problems, the use of support devices such as pulleys, knee braces and support devices can help. These devices support the knees and joints and reduce the pressure on them.
4. Avoiding shocks and injuries: Paying attention to the surrounding environment and avoiding shocks and injuries can reduce the risk of fractures. In epic sports and dangerous activities, wearing protective gear such as helmets, wearing protective gloves and seat belts can be helpful.
5. Using the correct techniques in daily movements: Using the correct techniques for bending, lifting, walking and daily movements can help maintain knee and joint health. Observe safety rules for the time being.Furthermore, if a fracture has occurred, additional care may need to be taken. In these cases, your doctor may advise you on specific care methods.
Treatment of bone fractures
1. Stabilization: In some cases, bone fractures require stabilization. This can be done by nuts, pulleys, support devices or foreign bodies such as conductive materials or bolts. Fixation of the broken bone helps the broken part sit properly and heal better.
2. Physical therapy: After a fracture, physical therapy can help you strengthen and heal your muscles and joints. Strengthening exercises, flexibility exercises, and balance exercises can help you recover and prevent re-fracture.
3. Medications: Your doctor may prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Healthy nutrition: Healthy and appropriate nutrition can help in the process of healing and strengthening the bones and tissues of the body. Make sure your diet contains enough vitamin D, calcium, and protein.
5. Follow your doctor’s orders: For a good recovery, it is important to follow your doctor’s orders carefully. This includes treatment changes, replacement of bandages or splints, and other possible special care.
It is important to talk to your orthopedic specialist about how to take care of your knees and joints at different times. Your doctor can provide the best advice based on your specific situation.
