Fractures
A fracture can change everything in an instant—pain, swelling, loss of motion, and the anxiety of not knowing what’s next. Dr. John B. Fuller provides precise fracture evaluation and a refined treatment plan designed to restore alignment, protect function, and support confident healing.
What are bone fractures?
A fracture is an injury where a bone cracks or breaks. Fractures can be small and stable—or displaced, unstable, and complex. They’re often caused by trauma (falls, sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents), but bone health conditions such as osteoporosis can increase risk as well.
Signs that may indicate a fracture
Pain & tenderness
Often sharp at the injury site and worsens with movement or pressure.
Swelling & bruising
Soft tissue swelling and discoloration are common after trauma.
Loss of function
Difficulty moving, gripping, or bearing weight can signal structural injury.
Deformity (sometimes)
A visible bump, abnormal angle, or (rarely) bone through skin requires urgent care.
How fractures are diagnosed and treated
Treatment depends on the bone involved, the fracture pattern, and whether alignment is stable. We prioritize safe healing, excellent function, and clear expectations.
Exam + X-rays
We assess swelling, tenderness, alignment, and circulation/nerve function. X-rays confirm location, severity, and stability.
Immobilization
Casting or splinting holds the bone in a controlled position to support healing. Follow-up imaging helps ensure alignment remains stable.
Closed reduction
When a fracture is displaced, a non-surgical realignment may restore position before immobilization—often using anesthesia for comfort.
Surgical fixation
Complex or unstable fractures may require fixation (plates, screws, pins, rods) to restore alignment and allow safe healing.
Return-to-function plan
A guided plan for swelling control, mobility, and strength—so you return to daily life with confidence and durable results.
Frequently Asked Questions
A fracture is a crack or break in a bone. Fractures range from stable hairline cracks to displaced or complex breaks that may require realignment or surgical fixation.
Common symptoms include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, and difficulty moving or using the affected area. Some injuries can cause visible deformity.
Fractures can occur at any age. Risk increases with falls or high-impact activity, and with conditions that weaken bones such as osteoporosis.
Diagnosis typically includes a focused exam and X-rays. Imaging confirms fracture location, alignment, and stability so we can match treatment to the injury.
Treatment may include immobilization (cast/splint), closed reduction to realign displaced fractures, or surgical fixation when fractures are unstable, complex, or involve critical alignment.
Sources
- AAOS OrthoInfo: Fractures (Broken Bones) overview and treatment basics. View source
- MedlinePlus: Closed reduction of a fractured bone (procedure explanation). View source
- AAOS OrthoInfo: Internal fixation for fractures (plates/screws/nails). View source
- BMUS (Burden of Musculoskeletal Diseases in the U.S.): Fractures as a common injury treated in healthcare settings. View source
This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Diagnosis and treatment vary by patient.