Bone Fractures

Bone fractures, also known simply as fractures or broken bones, occur when there is any loss of continuity within the bone. Bone fractures can happen in any part of the body, including the hand, shoulder, elbow and other upper extremities, as well as weight-bearing bones like the tibia. 

In fact, tibia bone fractures are among the most common injuries in the lower body. These injuries vary widely, and orthopedic specialists treat various types of bone fractures, ranging from simple cracks to complex breaks.

Types of Bone Fractures

There are many types of bone fractures, from a small hairline fracture—which is essentially a tiny crack—to a compound fracture in which the bone punctures the skin. More severe cases may include comminuted fractures, where the bone shatters into multiple pieces, or specialized injuries such as fractures of the orbital bone, which can occur after facial trauma. 

Bone Fracture Symptoms

Common symptoms of a fractured bone — whether it involves the upper extremities, the tibia or facial bones like the orbital area — may include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Discolored skin around the affected area
• A visible deformity or a bone appearing bent at an unusual angle
• Inability to put weight on the injured area
• Inability to move the affected limb or joint
• Bleeding if it is an open fracture

More serious bone fractures, especially those involving large bones such as the pelvis or femur, may also lead a person to:

• Look pale and clammy
• Be dizzy (feel faint)
• Feel sick or nauseous

Diagnosing Bone Fractures

To diagnose various types of bone fractures, providers typically begin with an X-ray. In more complex cases—such as suspected fractures of the orbital bone or certain tibia bone fractures—a CT scan or MRI may be needed for a clearer view.

Treatment and Healing of Bone Fractures

Bone healing is a natural process that begins automatically once the break occurs. For proper healing, the ends of the broken bone must be aligned—a step known as reducing the fracture. This may involve gentle manipulation, traction, or surgical intervention, depending on the type of bone fracture. After alignment, the bone must be immobilized with a cast, splint, brace, or, in some cases, surgical hardware.

Treatment focuses on restoring full function to the injured area—whether it's the hand, elbow, shoulder, upper extremities, or lower-body bones like the tibia. 

If you think you may have a fracture, contact the orthopedic hand and upper extremity specialists at Summa Health for a consultation.