Fractures Specialist

What causes a bone fracture?

As structurally sound as your bones are, one wrong motion and you have a fracture. A complete break means that the bone is entirely broken into two or more pieces. But not all fractures are that complex.

You can also suffer from stress fractures where the increasing amount of stress on weight-bearing bones — like in your lower legs — causes a small crack. In any case, fractures can develop because of:

• Overuse or repetitive use
• Sports injuries
• Impact on an uneven surface
• Brittle bones due to osteoporosis
  
  

Fractures affect men and women of all ages. Bone breaks can often mimic the symptoms of soft tissue injuries, such as an ankle sprain, so it’s important to have a thorough evaluation with Dr. Shayfer if you suspect you have a fracture.

Are there symptoms of a bone fracture?

Yes, and they can range from mild to severe. Pain is often common with a broken bone, although you can also experience any of the following symptoms, too.

• Bump or deformity
• Swelling or bruising
• Limited range of motion or function
• Difficulty bearing weight on the area
  
  

During your exam with Dr. Shayfer, he’s likely going to gather a digital X-ray or ultrasound images before performing a physical examination. Once he determines the severity of your fracture, he can give you options for treatment and your expected outcome.  

How are bone fractures treated?

Broken bones have to be “set” or realigned right away, otherwise, they won’t heal properly. This repositioning process, called a reduction, is performed right in the office at Sohail Shayfer, MD Inc. Once your bone is corrected, Dr. Shayfer can brace or cast your bone so it can heal.  

For severe fractures, Dr. Shayfer may need to surgically reposition your bones and use rods, pins, or plates to help keep your bones in proper alignment while healing. Many men and women also notice an improvement in pain and inflammation by getting stem cell or platelet-rich (PRP) plasma injections, especially if surgery is needed.

Your treatment and care plan depends on the severity of your break and how quickly you heal. It also depends on the location of the fracture. While Dr. Shayfer most commonly treats wrist, shoulder, hand, elbow, and knee fractures, he can certainly help you with broken bones in other areas, too.

If you have a broken bone, schedule an evaluation at Sohail Shayfer, MD Inc. to get started on treatment. Book your visit online or call the clinic directly.