Broken Arm – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Doctors check for tenderness, swelling, bruising, or any open wounds on the arm. They often ask questions about how the injury happened and what symptoms are present.
Doctors usually order an X-ray to see the fracture and learn more about the broken bone. If the break is hard to see, they might use a CT scan or MRI.
Signs like pain, weakness, and changes in movement help doctors figure out the type of fracture, such as a displaced fracture, greenstick fracture, or closed fracture.
Treatment
Bringing the Bone Into the Right Place
When a bone is out of alignment, a doctor may need to gently move it back. This process is called reduction. Sometimes, doctors give pain medicine or muscle relaxers before setting the bone.
In some cases, they use local or general anesthesia to make the patient more comfortable, especially if swelling or pain is severe. Lining up the bone properly helps it heal straight and lowers the risk of future problems.
Keeping the Arm Still
Once the bone is correctly positioned, keeping it from moving allows it to heal. Doctors may use a splint, brace, arm sling, or cast to hold the arm steady. At first, they might use a splint if there is a lot of swelling.
When the swelling goes down, usually after several days, a cast may be put on. Casts are made from hard materials like plaster or fiberglass and cover the injured area to protect it.
If the break is less severe, a simple sling or soft brace could be enough.
Devices for Immobilization
| Device | Used for | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Splint | Early care, swelling | Removable, less rigid |
| Cast | Keeping the bone steady | Hard, not removable |
| Brace | Mild or healing breaks | Can allow some movement |
| Sling | Support and comfort | Holds arm close to body |
Doctors schedule checks with X-rays during recovery to make sure the bones are still in the right place. If the bones shift, they might change the treatment.
Pain Relief and Medicines
Managing discomfort is part of treating a broken arm. Doctors often recommend simple pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help with pain and swelling.
If pain is very strong in the first few days, a doctor may prescribe stronger medicine for a short time. Anti-inflammatory drugs should not be used for too long, as they can sometimes slow bone healing.
For breaks where the skin is open and there is a higher risk of infection, a doctor will likely give an antibiotic to prevent bacteria from entering the wound and causing more serious problems.
Exercise and Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation usually starts early, sometimes while the arm is still in a sling or cast. Doctors encourage gentle movement as soon as it is safe to help avoid stiffness and keep muscles from weakening.
When a cast or brace is removed, people may do more active exercises to bring back strength and normal motion.
Physical therapists may guide stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises for more serious breaks or after surgery. The length of therapy depends on the injury, the personโs age, and how quickly the body heals.
Types of Therapy Activities
- Range-of-motion exercises
- Light strengthening drills
- Daily activity training
Regular therapy helps people use their arm again and can prevent lasting problems.
Operations for Severe Breaks
Some fractures need surgical care, especially if the bone is broken into several pieces, is badly out of place, or has pierced the skin. Doctors sometimes delay surgery until swelling has gone down.
During surgery, doctors may use metal plates, screws, pins, or wires to hold the bones together. These devices keep the bone stable and help it heal in the correct shape. The two main types of bone fixation are:
- Internal Fixation: Doctors place devices inside the body.
- External Fixation: A frame sits outside the body and connects to the bone through the skin.
Risks of surgery can include infection or bones that do not heal as expected.
Getting Ready for Your Doctorโs Visit
Steps to Take Before Your Visit
To make the most out of your appointment, try to prepare ahead of time. Bring a written list that includes:
- Symptoms and Details of the Injury: Jot down what happened and when, along with any pain or changes you have felt.
- Medical History: List any medical issues, such as osteoporosis or bone problems.
- Medications and Supplements: Write out all pills and vitamins you are taking, like calcium or vitamin D.
- Questions for the Doctor: Prepare questions about your treatment, possible surgery, pain relief plans, bone health, or if you need to see a specialist.
Tip: Having everything written helps you remember important facts during the visit.
What the Doctor Might Ask You
During your visit, expect the doctor to ask about:
- When your symptoms started and what caused them.
- The level and type of pain you are having.
- If anything helps or worsens your symptoms.
- Any injury or event that led to your situation.
