Bone Fractures in Adults

A fracture is the partial or complete break in the continuity of the bones and it is the result of trauma, falls, road accidents, sports and underlying diseases like osteoporosis.

In adults, fractures may require immediate medical attention to ensure complications, like improper healing, chronic pain or decreased mobility, do not arise.

How Do Bone Fractures Occur?

Fractures occur when the force applied to a bone is more than its strength.

Common causes include:

• Road traffic accidents
• Falls, especially in elderly people
• Sports injuries
• Direct blows
• Twisting injuries
• Osteoporosis

Low-impact fractures in the elderly may be a sign of lower density.

Types of Bone Fractures

The classification of fractures varies according to their severity, pattern and skin.

Based on Skin Involvement

• Closed (Simple) Fracture

The bone breaks but does not pierce the skin.

• Open (Compound) Fracture

Bone penetrates the skin. Higher risk of infection and urgent need for surgery.

Fracture Pattern

• Transverse fracture- Straight horizontal break
• Oblique fracture - Diagonal break
• Spiral fracture - Twisting injury pattern
• Comminuted fracture- Bone breaks in several pieces
• Stress fracture - Small crack due to repetitive stress
• Greenstick fracture- Partial break, more common in children but possible in adults in certain conditions
• Compression fracture- This is a common type of fracture that usually occurs in the spinal bones when a bone is compressed due to osteoporosis.

Common Sites of Fracture in Adults

• Wrist fractures (distal radius)
• Ankle fractures
• Hip fractures (particular among the elderly)
• Fractures of the clavicle
• Rib fractures
• Compression fractures of the vertebrae

Fractures of the hips and spine must be taken seriously with older patients because complications are more common.

Symptoms of a Bone Fracture

The symptoms are very variable, depending on the location and severity.

Common manifestations include:

• Severe pain around the injury site
• Bruising
• Obvious deformity
• Inability to walk or weight-bear
• Grinding sensation

In open fractures:

• Visible bone
• Bleeding

Medical evaluation should be sought immediately.

Diagnosis of Bone Fractures

1. Physical Examination

Assessment of swelling, tenderness, deformity, circulation and nerve function.

2. Imaging Tests

• X-ray: Primary diagnostic tool
• CT scan: Complex fractures
• MRI: Soft Tissues or Stress Fracture

3. Bone Density Test

If osteoporosis is suspected.

Treatment Options

Treatment is based on the type and place of fracture and the health of the patient.

1. Conservative Management

Suitable for stable fractures. Includes:

• Immobilization with a cast or splint
• Pain management
• Rest and elevation

The period of healing varies and takes around 6-8 weeks for the majority of the

2. Surgical Treatment

Required for:

• Displaced fractures
• Open fractures
• Joint involvement
• Unstable fractures

Surgical methods include:

• Internal fixation using plates and screws
• Rod insertion
• External fixation
• Joint replacement in severe hip fractures

Fracture Healing Process

Bone healing takes place in several stages.

• Inflammatory Phase (First few days)
• Reparative phase (Callus formation occurs in weeks)
• Remodeling phase (Several months)

However, complete remodeling may take months to a year.

Recovery Time

Healing time depends on:

• Age
• Bone involved
• Severity
• Nutritional status
• Presence of diabetes or smoking

Approximate healing duration:

• Wrist fractures: 6-8 weeks
• Ankle fractures: 6-12 weeks
• Hip fractures: 3-6 months
• Vertebral fractures: 8-12 weeks

Physical therapy may also be necessary to build strength and mobility.

Complications of Bone Fractures

Possible complications include:

• Delayed union
• Non union, where the fracture does not heal
• Malunion, where the fracture heals in wrong position
• Infection, in the case of open fractures
• Nerve damage
• Blood clots, especially after lower limb fractures

Early treatments reduce complications.

Prevention of Fractures

Preventive strategies include the following:

• Adequate intake of calcium and Vitamin D
• Regular weight-bearing exercise
• Fall prevention measures among the elderly
• Screening for osteoporosis
• Avoidance of smoking

When to Seek Emergency Care

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• There is severe deformity
• There is visible bone
• There is excessive bleeding
• Loss of sensation occurs
• Severe pain with inability to move

Conclusion

Bone fractures in adults can range from minor cracks to severe, life-threatening injuries. Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and structured rehabilitation are essential for optimal recovery.

Older adults with fractures should be evaluated for underlying osteoporosis to prevent future injuries.

Orthopaedic Care at Prakash Hospital

The facilities of fracture management at Prakash Hospital include advanced emergency services and rehabilitation, along with surgical fixation by the orthopaedic experts. Book an appointment to get expert assessment and treatment for your fracture.