Broken bone
Key points
- If more pressure is put on a bone than it can stand, it will split or break.
- It is hard to tell a dislocated bone from a broken bone.
- If necessary, call 911 and begin rescue breathing, CPR, or bleeding control.
- Even though other broken bones may not be medical emergencies, they still deserve medical attention.
Alternative names
Bone - broken; Fracture; Stress fracture
Definition
If more pressure is put on a bone than it can stand, it will split or break. A break of any size is called a fracture. If the broken bone punctures the skin, it is called an open fracture (compound fracture).
A stress fracture is a hairline crack in the bone that develops because of repeated or prolonged forces against the bone.
Considerations
It is hard to tell a dislocated bone from a broken bone. However, both are emergency situations, and the basic first aid steps are the same.
Causes
The following are common causes of broken bones:
- Fall from a height
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Direct blow
- Child abuse
- Repetitive forces, such as those caused by running, can cause stress fractures of the foot, ankle, tibia, or hip
Symptoms
- A visibly out-of-place or misshapen limb or joint
- Swelling, bruising, or bleeding
- Intense pain
- Numbness and tingling
- Broken skin with bone protruding
- Limitation or unwillingness to move a limb
First Aid
1. Check the person's airway and breathing. If necessary, call 911 and begin rescue breathing, CPR, or bleeding control.
2. Keep the person still and calm.
3. Examine the person closely for other injuries.
4. In most cases, if medical help responds quickly, allow the medical personnel to take further action.
5. If the skin is broken, it should be treated immediately to prevent infection. Don't breathe on the wound or probe it. If possible, lightly rinse the wound to remove visible dirt or other contamination, but do not vigorously scrub or flush the wound. Cover with sterile dressings.
6. If needed, immobilize the broken bone with a splint or sling. Possible splints include a rolled up newspaper or strips of wood. Immobilize the area both above and below the injured bone.
7. Apply ice packs to reduce pain and swelling.
8. Take steps to prevent shock. Lay the person flat, elevate the feet about 12 inches above the head, and cover the person with a coat or blanket. However, DO NOT move the person if a head, neck, or back injury is suspected.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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