Table of Contents
Fracture and Dislocation of Bone
Fracture is a break in the continuity of the bone. The bone may break into two or more pieces or may be cracked.
Dislocation is a displacement of the bone from its normal position. The bone may be displaced either medially (towards the midline of the body) or laterally (away from the midline of the body).
Types of Fracture
There are many types of fractures, but they can generally be classified as either closed or open. A closed fracture is a break that occurs without the skin being broken. An open fracture is a break that occurs with the skin being broken.
Closed fractures can be further classified into two types: simple and compound. A simple fracture is a break that only involves one bone. A compound fracture is a break that involves two or more bones.
Open fractures can be further classified into three types: trimalleolar, bimalleolar, and monoplegia. A trimalleolar fracture is a break that involves the ankle joint. A bimalleolar fracture is a break that involves the ankle and knee joints. A monoplegia is a break that involves a single bone in a limb.
Difference Between Fracture and Dislocation
A fracture is a break in the continuity of a bone, while a dislocation is a displacement of a bone from its normal position.
Symptoms of Fractures
The symptoms of a fracture depend on the location of the break and the severity of the injury. Generally, a fracture causes severe pain, swelling, and bruising. If the bone has punctured the skin, there may be an open wound. The person may also have difficulty moving the injured area.
Symptoms of Dislocations
Symptoms of a dislocation are pain, swelling, and deformity. The joint may also look out of place.
A dislocation is a medical condition in which a bone is displaced from its normal position. This can happen as the result of a traumatic event, such as a fall or car accident, or a medical condition, such as arthritis. Symptoms of a dislocation can include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected joint. If left untreated, a dislocation can lead to long-term joint damage. Treatment for a dislocation typically involves physical therapy and, in some cases, surgery.
Dislocation and Fracture Risk Factors
There are many factors that can increase the risk of a fracture or dislocation. Some of the most common include:
-Age: as we age our bones become more brittle and are more likely to break
-Gender: women are more likely to experience a fracture than men, due to factors such as osteoporosis
-Ethnicity: people of certain ethnicities (such as those of African or Asian descent) are more likely to experience a fracture
-Bone density: people with low bone density are more likely to experience a fracture
-Lifestyle: people who engage in high-impact activities (such as running or jumping) are more likely to experience a fracture, as are people who smoke or drink alcohol excessively
-Medical conditions: people who have conditions that affect bone health (such as osteoporosis) are more likely to experience a fracture
Fracture and Dislocation Treatment
Fracture and dislocation treatment includes reducing the fracture or dislocation, immobilizing the area with a cast or brace, and following up with physical therapy. Reducing the fracture or dislocation means putting the bones or joints back into their correct alignment. Immobilizing the area with a cast or brace keeps the bones or joints in the correct alignment while they heal. Physical therapy helps the person regain strength and range of motion.
