Bone Fractures: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options at Regencare Orthopedic

Introduction to Bone Fractures

Bone fractures are common injuries that affect people of any age. Bone fracture is a medical term for breaking a bone. It refers to a break or crack in a bone, which can happen due to various reasons, such as trauma, stress, or some other medical conditions. Fractures can be different. Some heal easily with minimal treatment, while others can be severe, requiring extensive medical intervention.

Many people have this doubt in mind: Are fractures and a broken bone similar? The answer is, that they are the same—both terms describe a disruption caused in the continuity of a bone due to different factors. Millions of people worldwide are affected by fracture, and it can occur at any age. Due to their active lifestyle, children may experience growth plate injuries, whereas older adults are affected by fractures like hip fractures due to osteoporosis.

At Regencare Orthopedic, we specialize in advanced bone treatment, utilizing regenerative medicine alongside traditional therapies to enhance healing and reduce recovery time.

Types of Bone Fractures

Bone fractures can be classified into different bone break types, each requiring a unique treatment approach. Understanding these types helps in determining the best course of action.

Major Categories:

• Closed vs. Open Fractures – When a bone is broken but does not penetrate the skin, it is known as a closed fracture. In open fracture, bone breaks through the skin which increases the risk of infection.
• Complete vs. Incomplete Fractures – Sometimes when the bone snaps into two or more pieces. This condition is known as a complete fracture, while an incomplete fracture means the bone is cracked but not fully separated. Here incomplete fracture is less risky compared to the other.
• Displaced vs. Non-Displaced Fractures – In a displaced fracture, the bone breaks into parts that move out of alignment, whereas in a non-displaced fracture, the bone remains aligned despite the break.

Common Types:

• Stress Fracture – Repetitive stress or pressure on bone may cause a small crack in the bone. This is common among athletes. Pain and swelling in the affected area are common symptoms.
• Growth Plate Injury – Growth plates are areas of soft tissue at the ends of children’s bones where growth occurs. Injuries in this area may affect the child’s growth. Trauma, overuse, and stress can cause growth plate injury.
• Compression Fracture – This condition is common in osteoporosis patients. Compression fractures occur when bones collapse due to weakness. Back pain, loss of height,  and curvature of the spine are the common symptoms.

Causes and Risk Factors of Bone Fractures

Fractures can happen for various reasons, but they typically fall into three major categories:

• Traumatic Injuries – Accidents, falls, and sports-related injuries are the leading causes of fractures. A simple misstep can result in a broken ankle, fractured wrist, or broken arm.
• Overuse and Repetitive Stress – Activities that involve repetitive impact, such as running, can lead to a stress fracture.
• Osteoporosis and Bone Conditions – Weakened bones due to osteoporosis increase the risk of fractures, especially in older adults.
• Age-Related Risks – Children are susceptible to growth plate injuries, whereas older adults are more likely to experience broken hips due to falls and fragile bones.

Symptoms of a Broken Bone

Identifying a fracture early can prevent complications. Here are common signs:

• Pain and Swelling – Pain at the point of injury that occurs right away and is followed by swelling.
• Deformity – A fracture can cause a limb to appear bent or out of place.
• Immobility – Difficulty moving the injured area.
• Severe Cases – In some fractures, the bone may come out through the skin.

A broken bone has distinct symptoms, such as severe back pain, numbness, or paralysis, indicating potential spinal involvement. Immediate medical care is necessary.

Diagnosing Bone Fractures

At Regencare Orthopedic, diagnosing fractures involves:

• Physical Examination – A doctor assesses swelling, deformity, and pain levels and also applies gentle pressure in the affected area to check for tenderness. Numbness, tingling, and circulatory problems are also identified.
• Imaging Tests – X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs provide a detailed view of the fractured wrist, broken ankle, or broken hip. This test is done to find out the severity of the condition.
• Special Considerations – Subtle fractures like stress fractures may require additional tests for confirmation. This may require specialized imaging tests, such as 3D reconstructions, to help plan treatment.

Treatment Options for Fractures

Treatment depends on the fracture type and severity. Options include:

1. Immobilization

• Casts, Splints, and Braces – Used for non-displaced fractures to keep bones in place while they heal. These are used to reduce pain, prevent further injury or displacement, and to improve healing of bone.

2. Surgical Interventions

• Severe fractures, like displaced fractures, often require surgery. Surgery is done when the condition is critical and the immobilization process no longer works. Plates, screws, and rods may be used to stabilize bones.In this process, the condition of the person is examined at the initial stage, and then the doctor decides about the plan. After undergoing surgery, the patient needs proper rest for a few weeks to months (depending on the healing time)

3. Bone Healing Process

• Bone remolding is a natural process in which new bone forms at the fracture site. Different stages include:

    – Inflammation

    – Soft callus formation

    – Hard callus formation

    – Bony union

    – Remodeling

4. Regenerative Medicine at Regencare Orthopedic

• We offer advanced bone treatment using regenerative cell therapy and stem cell therapy to promote faster healing and tissue regeneration. Regenerative cell therapy including Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy, Growth Factor Concentrate (GFC) treatment, Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) treatment, Autologous Continuous Serum, Autologous Cultured Osteoblast, Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF) treatment will be offered to patients.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After a Fracture

Healing times vary based on age, fracture type, and treatment approach:

• Healing Time – The healing time of bone fracture depends on the severity of the injury. If it is a minor fracture, it may heal within weeks, while severe fractures will take months (There are conditions where the injury cannot be healed).
• Rehabilitation Programs – Physical therapy helps restore strength and mobility. Physiotherapy is recommended for patients who have undergone treatments for fractures. This can also be done to avoid surgery or further treatments (in minor cases).

Tips for Faster Recovery:

Proper Nutrition – Proper food intake is compulsory as it will promote the healing process. Calcium and vitamin D are essential for patients. Doctors will recommend to follow a proper routine.

Avoiding Reinjury – After treatment a good rest is needed for the patient. So, they should not return to the activities. This will further cause injury.

Preventing Bone Fractures

It’s better to take preventive measures rather than treating them after they occur. These preventative measures include:

• Bone-Strengthening Strategies – A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D supports bone health. By increasing health, we can prevent bone issues in the future.
• Fall Prevention – Installing handrails and using non-slip footwear reduces the risk of falls in older adults.
• Sports Injury Prevention – Proper warm-ups, protective gear, and safe training techniques help prevent stress fractures and other bone injuries.

Why Choose Regencare Orthopedic?

“Regencare is a leading clinic for regenerative cell treatment, providing cutting-edge, non-surgical solutions for bone fracture. Our team leverages advanced technology to accurately diagnose and effectively treat fractures. We prioritize personalized care, tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs for optimal, long-lasting recovery.”