Types of Fractures and How Mary Rutan Health’s Team Treats Them
Fractures are a common injury, often resulting from accidents, sports activities, or even falls. At Mary Rutan Health, our orthopedics team specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of fractures. Understanding the types of fractures and how they are treated can help patients feel more confident in their recovery journey.
Types of Fractures
- Simple (Closed) Fracture
A simple or closed fracture occurs when the bone breaks but does not pierce the skin. These fractures can vary in severity, from small cracks to complete breaks.
Treatment: Most simple fractures are treated with immobilization using casts or splints. Our orthopedics team will ensure proper alignment of the bone before applying a cast to allow for natural healing. Physical therapy may follow to restore strength and mobility.
- Compound (Open) Fracture
In a compound fracture, the bone breaks through the skin, increasing the risk of infection and complications. These types of fractures require immediate medical attention.
Treatment: Our team will often begin by cleaning the wound to prevent infection before surgically realigning the bone. Depending on the severity, plates, screws, or rods may be used to stabilize the bone during the healing process.
- Greenstick Fracture
This type of fracture is most common in children, whose bones are softer and more flexible than adults. In a greenstick fracture, the bone bends and cracks but does not break completely.
Treatment: Greenstick fractures typically require immobilization with a cast or splint. Because children’s bones heal faster, close monitoring is essential to ensure proper healing and avoid long-term issues.
- Comminuted Fracture
A comminuted fracture occurs when the bone shatters into three or more pieces. This type of fracture is usually the result of high-impact trauma, such as car accidents.
Treatment: Surgical intervention is often required to repair comminuted fractures. Our orthopedic surgeons may use metal plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the bone fragments during healing. Rehabilitation is usually necessary post-surgery to regain full function.
- Stress Fracture
Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone, often caused by repetitive activities like running or jumping. These fractures can develop gradually over time, making them harder to detect initially.
Treatment: Rest and activity modification are key for stress fractures. In some cases, the use of crutches or braces may be recommended to alleviate pressure on the affected area. Our orthopedics team may also suggest physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and prevent future fractures.
- Spiral Fracture
A spiral fracture occurs when a twisting force is applied to a bone, causing it to break in a spiral pattern. These types of fractures are often seen in sports injuries or accidents.
Treatment: Spiral fractures may require realignment and immobilization. Depending on the severity, surgery may be needed to stabilize the bone with screws or plates. Rehabilitation plays an important role in ensuring the bone heals properly and maintains full functionality.
Mary Rutan Orthopedics: Personalized Care for Fracture Treatment
At Mary Rutan, our experienced orthopedics team understands that each fracture is unique. We take a personalized approach to treatment, considering the type and severity of the fracture, the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health.
From the moment you arrive, our specialists are here to guide you through every step of the healing process. Whether it’s a simple fracture requiring a cast or a complex case needing surgical intervention, Mary Rutan’s orthopedics team uses advanced techniques and cutting-edge technology to ensure optimal recovery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Fracture recovery doesn’t end when the cast comes off. Our comprehensive approach includes a detailed rehabilitation plan to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Our physical therapists work closely with patients to develop personalized exercises and recovery plans that promote healing and prevent re-injury.
Why Choose Mary Rutan Orthopedics?
- Expert Surgeons: Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons are skilled in treating all types of fractures, from routine breaks to complex cases requiring advanced surgical care.
- Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art imaging and treatment techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
- Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to rehabilitation, we provide end-to-end care to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
If you or a loved one has suffered a fracture, trust the Mary Rutan Orthopedics and Sports Medicine team to provide the expert care you need. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to healing by calling 937.599.1280.