Take the Stress Out of Fractures

A fracture is a broken bone. A bone may be completely fractured or partially fractures in a number of ways: crosswise, lengthwise, or in multiple pieces.  

Stress-Free Fracture Prevention

• A diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D promotes bone strength, which includes dairy products, green vegetables, salmon, and some fortified foods. Visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation website for a complete list of foods and daily requirements.
• Weight-bearing exercises help keep bones strong, such as walking, hiking, dancing, aerobics, and tennis.
• Resistance training with free weights strengthens major muscle groups.
• Flexibility and balance exercises like tai chi and yoga improve balance and help to avoid falls.
• Consult with the DOC physical therapist or an athletic trainer to create a personalized bone-building diet and exercise program.

Causes of Fractures

• Trauma from a fall, a motor vehicle accident or a sports injury
• Weakened bones from osteoporosis
• Overuse or repetitive motion stress fracture

Symptoms of a Fracture

• Pain
• Unable to move the injured area
• Swelling and tenderness
• Bruising
• Deformity

Examination for Fractures

The DOC orthopedic surgeon or PA will carefully examine the injured area and confirm the diagnosis with X-rays, which provide clear images of bone. A plaster or fiberglass cast is the most common type of fracture treatment. Most broken bones heal successfully once they have been repositioned and a cast keeps the broken ends in the proper position to heal.  

For more information on the cost of care, click here.