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Fracture Assessment
A fracture is a break in a bone, from a fine crack to a complete break. The right treatment depends on which bone, where and how it has broken, so careful assessment comes first.
Understanding it
Bones can break from a fall, a sports injury or an accident, or from repeated stress over time. Some fractures are obvious; others cause pain and swelling that can be mistaken for a sprain.
Most fractures heal well when the bone ends are held in a good position for long enough. The specialist's job is to decide how best to achieve that, and to guide your recovery afterwards.
Reasons people seek an assessment
- Pain, swelling or bruising after a fall or injury
- Difficulty using or putting weight on a limb
- Ongoing pain after a sprain that hasn't settled
- Follow-up care for a fracture treated elsewhere
- Questions about recovery after a cast is removed
Only an examination can tell what's causing your symptoms.
How it's assessed
Examination
Where it hurts, swelling, movement, and checks of circulation and nerves.
X-ray
The usual first test. Some fractures need CT or MRI to be seen clearly.
Treatment decision
Whether the bone can heal in a support, or needs to be repositioned or fixed.
Follow-up plan
When to return for checks and repeat X-rays, and what to watch for.
Treatment options a specialist may discuss
Options are usually considered from the least invasive upwards. Not every option suits every person, and a real clinic lists only what it offers.
Support
A cast, splint, boot or brace to hold the bone while it heals.
Repositioning
Some fractures need the bone ends gently realigned before a cast is applied.
Surgical fixation
Plates, screws, rods or wires for fractures that won't stay in position otherwise.
Pain relief guidance
Keeping you comfortable during the early stages of healing.
Bone health review
For some people, especially after a low-impact fall, checking for weak bones.
Recovery and rehabilitation
- Exercises to restore movement in nearby joints, often while still healing
- Gradual return to weight-bearing, as advised
- Regular checks until the bone has healed
Seek urgent care. Go to an emergency department, not a clinic appointment, if a limb is visibly bent or deformed, bone is visible through the skin, the limb below the injury is numb, pale or cold, or the injury followed a major accident or a head injury. Call 112 in an emergency.
What to bring
- Any X-rays or reports from an emergency visit
- A list of medicines, including blood thinners
- Loose clothing that fits over a cast or splint
Bring these to the consultation rather than sending them online. Full checklist
Questions people ask
How long does a fracture take to heal?
It varies with the bone, the type of break, age and general health. Many fractures take several weeks to heal, and full strength can take longer.
How do I know if it's broken or just sprained?
It can be hard to tell without an X-ray. If you can't use the limb normally or pain and swelling are significant, get it checked.
Will I need surgery?
Many fractures heal in a cast or brace. Surgery is considered when the bone ends are out of position or unstable.
What should I do if my cast feels too tight?
Contact the clinic promptly. Increasing pain, numbness, tingling or colour changes in fingers or toes need urgent attention.
Have a question that isn't answered here?
Clinical review pending
Before publication, a treating specialist at the clinic reviews this guide. Their name, registration number and the review date appear here. General information for patients, not a diagnosis or personal advice.
Questions about fracture assessment?
Request a consultation. The specialist will assess you, explain what they find and talk through the options with you.