Whether you’ve broken a bone or you’ve seen someone else break a bone, there are some things you should know about it. Having a basic understanding of what happens when you break a bone can save you a lot of time, money, and worry. You’ll be able to find information on the different types of treatment you can receive and the various types of pain relievers that are available.

X-rays

X-rays help to determine the type of break in a bone. This procedure is a painless way to see the inside of a patient’s body. They also help to determine the extent of the break. They may be taken to look at joints, bones, or other soft tissues. They can also detect bone cancer or foreign objects in the soft tissues.

When you break a bone, you may experience pain or swelling. The pain is often related to the break, but it can also be caused by strain or a muscle injury. The swelling can last for several days. If you’re experiencing pain that impairs your ability to move your limb, it’s important to get an x-ray.

There are a number of different fractures. The type you have depends on the force that broke your bone. Some fractures are easy to spot on an x-ray, while others are more difficult to see.

MRI scans

MRI scans when you break a bone are an excellent diagnostic tool that can help your doctor determine the severity of your bone injury. These scans are painless and can usually be performed at an outpatient imaging center. They are also useful for diagnosing soft tissue injuries. Usually, you will be asked to lie still while the scan is performed.

A CT scan is also useful for detecting bone fractures. These scans are highly detailed and can help identify blood vessel blockages, tumors, and osteoporosis.

An MRI may also be used to detect occult fractures. These injuries are not visible on conventional X-rays. This scan can be used to detect scaphoid fractures, femoral neck fractures, and other bony injuries.

Unlike CT scans, MRI does not use radiation to create images. Instead, it uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images. In addition to demonstrating acute and chronic injuries, MRI can also identify cartilage, tendon, and ligament injuries.

Plates and screws

During bone fracture repair, plates and screws are used to help hold the bone in place. These can be either external or internal fixation devices. These are usually made of titanium or cobalt. They are also available in other materials.

There are many kinds of plates. Each type is named for its function. You’ll find bone plates, compression plates, neutralization plates and many more. They are used to hold broken bones together, thereby improving the healing process. Some surgeons will use these devices as part of a more comprehensive bone fracture repair plan.

A standard bone plate is made up of two holes that are drilled into the bone. These holes are deep enough to hold the bone together, but not so deep that it will back out. In some cases, the plate may be left in place after the bone heals.

Pain relievers

Whether you break a bone or have a soft tissue injury, you can be in a lot of pain. If you are suffering from pain, your health care provider can prescribe pain relievers that can help you feel better.

There are many kinds of pain relievers, including those that can be taken orally. Some of these can cause side effects, such as drowsiness. It’s important to discuss the types of pain relievers you’re taking with your health care provider. Some prescription pain medications should be taken for only a short time.

Several prescription pain relievers, such as oxycodone, morphine and codeine, have an opioid component. These medications are typically given through an IV, although they may be taken orally.

NSAIDs are also used to help relieve pain. However, they can cause stomach irritation and slow bone healing.

Treatment

Depending on the area of the bone that has been fractured, there are various treatment options. The most common is cast immobilization. However, if the broken bone is in the arm or leg, surgery may be required.

Surgical treatment for bone fractures may include splints, plates, and screws. The doctor will determine the best treatment for the specific bone fracture.

The healing time of bone fractures depends on the type of fracture, the location of the injury, and other factors. Healing takes anywhere from two weeks to months, depending on the type of injury.

In addition to the aforementioned methods, you can also reduce pain and swelling by icing the area. You may also want to get some exercise, which can help speed up the healing process. Exercise can also help strengthen the bones and muscles surrounding the fracture.