Fractures

Fractures in Mississauga

Fractures occur when a bone breaks or cracks due to injury, overuse, or weakness. The severity of the fracture can vary, from hairline cracks to complete breaks, and it may require different types of treatment depending on the location and intensity of the injury. Fractures can affect anyone, whether from a fall, car accident, or sports-related incident. In this article, we’ll explore the types of fractures, common causes, symptoms, and how physiotherapy can support recovery and rehabilitation.

What is a Fracture?

A fracture is a break in the continuity of a bone. The injury can range from a small crack to a complete break, depending on the force that caused it. The bones most commonly affected by fractures include the arms, legs, wrists, and collarbones, but fractures can occur in any bone in the body. Treatment will vary based on the type and location of the fracture, and physiotherapy can help ensure optimal healing and return to normal activity levels.

Symptoms of a Fracture

Some common symptoms of a fracture include:

• Pain: Immediate and often intense pain at the site of the injury. Pain tends to increase with movement or pressure.
• Swelling and Bruising: The injured area may swell and bruise due to bleeding within the tissues surrounding the bone.
• Deformity: In the case of more severe fractures, the bone may appear out of alignment or bent, especially in cases of compound fractures (where the bone breaks through the skin).
• Limited Mobility: Difficulty moving the affected limb or joint due to pain or instability.
• Numbness: In some cases, a fracture may cause damage to surrounding nerves, leading to numbness or tingling sensations in the affected area.

Common Causes of Fractures

Fractures can occur for various reasons, such as:

• Trauma: A significant force or impact, such as a fall, car accident, or direct blow to the body, can cause bones to break.
• Overuse or Repetitive Stress: Repeated stress on a bone, particularly in athletes or people who perform physically demanding jobs, can cause stress fractures. These are small cracks that develop gradually over time.
• Osteoporosis: A condition where bones become weak and brittle due to a loss of bone density, making them more prone to breaking from minor falls or even normal daily activities.
• Sports Injuries: Athletes, particularly those involved in high-impact or contact sports, are at a higher risk for fractures due to the physical nature of their activities.

Types of Fractures

There are several types of fractures, including:

• Closed Fracture: The bone breaks but does not pierce the skin.
• Open Fracture (Compound Fracture): The bone breaks and punctures the skin, exposing the bone to the outside environment.
• Hairline Fracture: A small crack in the bone that may not be immediately visible on X-rays.
• Comminuted Fracture: The bone breaks into several smaller pieces.
• Greenstick Fracture: A partial break where the bone bends, common in children due to the flexibility of their bones.

Physiotherapy for Fractures

Once a fracture has been treated, physiotherapy plays a key role in the recovery process. It helps reduce pain, restore mobility, and strengthen the muscles and bones around the injured area. Some treatments physiotherapists may use include:

• Manual Therapy: Techniques such as massage and joint mobilization can help reduce pain and stiffness, improve circulation, and promote healing.
• Exercise Therapy: Once the fracture has healed enough, strengthening and range-of-motion exercises are essential to restore function and flexibility in the affected area.
• Education and Posture Training: Physiotherapists may guide you on proper posture and body mechanics to reduce stress on the injured area during rehabilitation.
• Assistive Devices: In some cases, custom orthotics, braces, or supports can help protect the injured area during recovery and assist with movement.
• Cold and Heat Therapy: Cold packs can help reduce inflammation and swelling, while heat therapy can assist with muscle relaxation once swelling has gone down.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Early physiotherapy intervention following a fracture can accelerate the healing process, prevent complications such as muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, and reduce the risk of long-term pain. By addressing these issues early on, patients can improve their chances of making a full recovery and return to their normal activities without limitations.

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

In cases where surgery is required to treat the fracture, post-surgical rehabilitation is vital to ensure optimal recovery. Physiotherapy can aid in managing pain, preventing scar tissue formation, and restoring function to the affected area. A physiotherapist will develop a tailored rehabilitation program that takes into account the type of surgery performed and the specific needs of the patient.

How We Can Help

If you’ve suffered a fracture and are looking for a structured rehabilitation plan, we are here to help. Our team of physiotherapists can create a rehabilitation plan tailored to your needs, guiding you through each stage of recovery to ensure you regain strength, mobility, and confidence in your body. Contact us today to start your rehabilitation journey.