General Fracture Advice
- Swelling Advice
When an injury occurs in the body it is a common response for pain and swelling to occur. This is a combination of bruising and bleeding in the area of the injury and fluid from the tissues. There are three simple ways to help manage swelling:
- Ice: Ice is an effective way of bringing down the swelling to a limb or injury. Applying it for 15 minutes four times a day can help with pain relief and swelling. Do not apply ice directly to the skin as this can cause skin irritation or damage. Applying a wet tea towel with a frozen bag of peas is an effective way of cooling the area.
- Elevation: Elevating the limb above the heart is an effective way of using gravity to help with decreasing the swelling. By reducing the swelling this will in turn improve the pain in the limb. It is important to elevate the limb for the first 72 hours following the injury.
- Medication: A&E may have prescribed pain relief and it is important to take it regularly and as instructed. Do not exceed the recommended dose as the medications may have side effects and cause harm if taken inappropriately.
- Preventing DVTs
What is a DVT?
DVT stands for Deep Vein Thrombosis and is when clots occur in the lower limbs due to stasis of blood. Stasis of blood can occur with fractures and increase the chance of a clot forming.
What symptoms may be presented?
- Swelling and tenderness in the calf or lower limb
- Change in colour of the skin and the toes compared to the other side
- Pain in the groin or chest area
What happens if I am told I am at a higher risk of clots?
If you are identified as being at risk of a DVT then the team will advise you to take medication to decrease the risk. The clinician who reviews your notes and xrays in the Virtual Fracture Clinic will make the assessment whether medication is required.
How can I get further information on DVTs?
There is an NHS website set up for further information and up to date guidance on Deep Vein Thrombosis: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis-dvt/
- Osteoporosis and Fracture Prevention
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a common medical problem and is when your bones loose their strength. This means certain fractures are more common and can occur with less energy. It more commonly affects women but men can also suffer from it.
Is my fracture due to Osteoporosis?
Some fractures are commonly caused by Osteoporosis and these include hip fractures, humerus fractures to name a couple. However, if you are over 50 years of age and have sustained a fracture from a fall from standing height then you should have an assessment for Osteoporosis.
How can I get more information on osteoporosis?
There is a Royal Society for Osteoporosis and their website carries information and advice for patients: https://theros.org.uk/
- Smoking Cessation
Smoking has been scientifically shown to impact upon fracture healing. Each cigarette can affect the ability of a fracture to heal for a period of time. Smoking cessation is strongly recommended if you have a fracture as it can impact upon your healing and your outcome. Stopping smoking during the healing stage will help maximise the chance of healing and getting the best possible outcome.
For information on smoking caesation you can access the NHS website or contact your GP for local services.
- Driving Advice
Driving a motor vehicle requires you to be able to control the motor vehicle as it has the potential to cause serious injury to yourself and others. If you have an upper limb injury, you can begin driving when you are no longer using a sling and have sufficient range of movement and pain free function in your arms.
If you have a lower limb injury, you can begin driving when you no longer use a boot or crutches and you have sufficient function and strength to perform an emergency stop.
If you are unsure then do not drive until you have spoken to the Orthopaedic team and your insurance company.