What Are Incomplete Fractures?
A fracture is a medical terminology for a broken bone. Bone fractures are common injuries that can affect anyone at any age. Bones can fracture lengthwise, crosswise, in several places, or into many pieces. Bone fractures can be closed or open, incomplete or complete, depending upon the fracture's pattern, cause, and location. Incomplete fractures, also called minor fractures, refer to a heterogeneous group of fractures that occurs when the bone does not break entirely and is only a hairline crack.
What Are Three Types of Incomplete Fractures?
Incomplete fracture cracks without breaking all the way through.
Types of incomplete fracture are:
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Bowing Fracture: These are incomplete fractures of long tubular bones and occur as a plastic response to longitudinal stress.
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Torus Fracture: It is a type of bone fracture where one side of a bone bends, raising a little buckle, without breaking the other side of the bone. These fractures commonly occur in the metaphyseal regions, especially in the distal radius.
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Greenstick Fracture: This occurs when a bone bends and breaks instead of breaking completely into separate pieces. The greenstick fractures are far less common than torus fractures, tend to be mid-shaft injuries, and may result from direct perpendicular trauma.
What Are The Causes of Incomplete Fracture?
Incomplete fractures, also known as stress fractures or hairline fractures, occur when there is a crack or small break in a bone. These types of fractures are commonly seen in athletes or people who engage in repetitive physical activities that put a strain on their bones. The most common causes of incomplete fractures include overuse or repetitive strain, poor technique or form during physical activity, inadequate rest and recovery time, and underlying medical conditions that weaken bones such as osteoporosis or calcium deficiency. Understanding the causes of incomplete fractures can help individuals take preventive measures and reduce their risk of sustaining such injuries.
What Are the Main Signs and Symptoms of Incomplete Fractures?
When a fracture happens, the area often has sharp and severe pain, which can worsen if the area is touched or moved.
Other symptoms may include:
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Redness or swelling in the region of the fracture.
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Difficulty moving the injured area.
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Visible deformity to the injured area.
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Snapping or grinding in the injured area.
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Bruising or discoloration.
How Are Incomplete Fractures Diagnosed?
The healthcare provider diagnoses a bone fracture with a physical examination of the injured area and imaging tests. In addition, the provider may ask to move the injured area in different ways to check for pain or other associated signs of injury.
Imaging Tests:
At least one of the following imaging tests is required to confirm the diagnosis:
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X-Rays: These can reveal most incomplete fractures.
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CT Scan: A CT scan provides a more detailed picture of the bones and the surrounding tissue.
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): The provider may use an MRI to obtain a complete picture of the damage to the bones and the surrounding area. This imaging test also reveals tissue like cartilage and ligaments around the bones.
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Bone Scan: This scan is used to find fractures that do not appear on an X-ray. However, this takes longer, usually two visits four hours apart.
How Is an Incomplete Fracture Treated?
A healthcare provider should always look at a fracture, even a minor one.
Treatment includes the following:
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Immobilization: One may only need a splint or cast to stabilize the broken bone in incomplete fractures. Splinting generally lasts for three to five weeks. Casts may take longer, typically six to eight weeks. Occasionally, the healthcare provider may use a removable splint, particularly if the break is mostly healed. The advantage of a splint is that it can be taken off briefly for a bath or shower. X-rays are needed in a few weeks to ensure the fracture is healing properly, to check the bone alignment, and to determine when a cast is no longer needed. During the natural healing process, new bone forms around the edges of the broken pieces. The new bone will eventually connect the broken pieces if adequately aligned and stabilized.
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Pain Management: A pain reliever like Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, or a combination can help reduce pain and inflammation. For severe pain, the health care provider may prescribe stronger pain medications.
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Physical Therapy: After the initial treatment stages, the provider may recommend physical therapy or other strategies to help regain normal use.
What Is the Outlook for People With Incomplete Bone Fractures?
Most people with a broken bone fully recover and can resume their routine after their bone heals. However, the fracture may take several weeks or months to heal. In most cases, the pain subsides before the bone heals completely. Therefore, it is essential to restrict the movement of the injured area while it mends. As a result, one may not be able to participate in some normal activities. Age and medical history can also impact the recovery process. In addition, certain medical conditions can impair the body's ability to mend broken bones. Once the fracture is healed, one can return to normal activities and routines. Talk to a healthcare provider before resuming physical activities or playing sports while recovering. Physical therapy can also aid in recovery.
What Are the Complications of Incomplete Fractures?
Fracture surgery complications can include:
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Malunion: It happens when the broken bones do not line up correctly while they heal.
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Nonunion: The bones may not grow back together entirely or at all.
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Acute Compartment Syndrome (ACS): This medical emergency occurs when pressure rises in and around muscles. This can prevent blood, oxygen, and nutrients from flowing to muscles and nerves, resulting in severe damage and possible death.
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Other Internal Damage: Fractures may damage the area around the injury, such as the muscles, nerves, blood vessels, tendons, and ligaments.
Conclusion
Incomplete fractures can occur in various bones of the body, including the long bones of the arms and legs, the ribs, and the vertebrae. These fractures may be less severe than complete fractures, but they can still cause pain and limit mobility. It is important to seek medical attention if someone suspects they have an incomplete fracture, as proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent further damage and complications. With proper care, most incomplete fractures can heal completely and allow for a return to normal activity.
