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First Aid For Fractures
A fracture is the break or crack of the bone caused by direct or indirect force over the bone. Direct force results in the bone breaking where the force landed while indirect force cause the bone to break at another site away from the point of impact.
Types of Fractures
There are several types of fractures, each characterized by the nature and location of the break in the bone. The main types of fractures include:
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Closed Fracture: Also known as a simple fracture, this type of fracture occurs when the bone breaks but does not pierce through the skin. The break is contained within the body.
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Open Fracture: Also called a compound fracture, an open fracture is one in which the broken bone pierces through the skin, exposing it to the external environment. This type of fracture carries a higher risk of infection.
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Greenstick Fracture: Commonly seen in children, a greenstick fracture occurs when the bone bends and partially breaks, resembling the way a green twig breaks. The other side of the bone remains intact.
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Transverse Fracture: A transverse fracture is characterized by a horizontal fracture line that runs across the bone. It is usually caused by a direct impact or a bending force applied to the bone.
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Oblique Fracture: An oblique fracture refers to a diagonal fracture line that runs across the bone. It is usually caused by a combination of bending and twisting forces.
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Spiral Fracture: A spiral fracture occurs when the bone is twisted forcefully, resulting in a spiral-shaped fracture line. This type of fracture is commonly associated with twisting injuries or excessive torque.
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Comminuted Fracture: In a comminuted fracture, the bone breaks into three or more fragments. This can occur due to high-energy impacts or severe trauma.
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Compression Fracture: Compression fractures typically occur in the vertebrae and are characterized by the collapse or compression of the bone. Osteoporosis or high-impact injuries, such as a fall from a height, can cause this type of fracture.
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Stress Fracture: Stress fractures are hairline cracks that develop over time due to repetitive stress or overuse of a bone. They often occur in weight-bearing bones, such as the shinbone (tibia) or foot bones.
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Avulsion Fracture: An avulsion fracture happens when a small piece of bone is pulled away by a tendon or ligament. This usually occurs during a forceful muscle contraction or sudden movement.
First Aid
First aid for fractures aims to stabilize the injured area and minimize further damage until professional medical help can be obtained. Here’s what you can do:
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Assess the situation: Ensure your safety and that of the injured person. Do not move the person if there is a suspected head, neck, or spinal injury. Call for emergency medical assistance immediately.
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Keep the person still: Encourage the injured person to remain still and avoid moving the affected limb or body part to prevent further injury.
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Support the injured area: If possible, provide support and immobilization to the injured limb or body part. You can use improvised splints or stabilize the area with pillows, cushions, or folded clothing to prevent movement. Do not attempt to realign the bone or push protruding bones back into place.
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Control swelling: Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth to the injured area to help reduce pain and swelling. Apply it for 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin.
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Elevate the injured limb (if applicable): If the fracture is in an arm or leg, gently elevate the limb to help reduce swelling. Support the limb with pillows or cushions.
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Provide pain relief: If the injured person is in pain, you can give over-the-counter pain medications following the recommended dosage. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional or follow local guidelines before administering any medication.
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Don’t remove impaled objects: If there is an object impaled in the body, such as a knife or a stick, do not remove it. Stabilize the object and the injured area around it, and seek immediate medical help.
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Seek medical assistance: Fractures require medical evaluation and treatment. Call emergency services or transport the person to the nearest hospital or healthcare facility for appropriate medical care.
Remember, providing first aid for fractures should be done cautiously, and professional medical help should be sought as soon as possible. Improper handling or movement of a fracture can worsen the injury and lead to complications.