Fracture Care Specialist

What is fracture care?

Fracture care is a branch of orthopedic medicine focused on diagnosing and treating fractures or broken bones. Fractures are common and occur for many reasons. However, they’re usually the result of a high impact collision or outside force placing pressure on your bone. In some cases, fractures are pathologic. This means they’re caused by a disease such as osteoporosis or cancer.

If you suspect you have a fracture, schedule an appointment with the team at NASA Bone & Joint Specialists immediately. The sooner you receive treatment for your fracture, the less likely it is to cause other health problems or complications.

What are the symptoms of a fracture?

The symptoms of a fracture vary depending on their location and severity. However, common signs to look out for include:

• Pain
  
• Swelling
  
• Difficulty using or moving your affected limb
  
• Bruising
  
• Stiffness
  
• Visible deformities
  
  

If you suffer a fracture as a result of a fall or contact while playing sports, you might also hear a popping or crunching sensation on impact.

How do you diagnose a fracture?

To diagnose a fracture, your NASA Bone & Joint Specialists provider asks you questions about your initial injury and performs a physical exam. Your doctor also orders diagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray, MRI, or bone scan to get a closer look at the bone. Your doctor reviews the results of these scans to pinpoint the source and severity of your fracture.

How do you treat a fracture?

Treatment for fractures depends on the severity of the break and the symptoms you’re experiencing. However, in most cases, the team recommends a cast or splint. These methods of treatment immobilize your bone and encourage proper alignment. The team might also prescribe prescription medications to ease pain or to prevent an infection.

If you suffer a severe fracture, the team might recommend surgical intervention. For example, hip fractures almost always require orthopedic surgery. Following surgery, you might also benefit from treatment with orthobiologics, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy or stem cell injections.

What type of fracture care is right for me?

The team at NASA Bone & Joint Specialists develops fracture care treatment plans based on their patients’ individual needs and health histories. Following a thorough exam and review of your medical history, they formulate a unique treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs.

If you’re in need of high-quality fracture care, make an appointment with the team at NASA Bone & Joint specialists by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool today.