Fractures

Bones are strong, but they’re not unbreakable. A sudden impact, repetitive stress, or an underlying condition can cause them to crack or break, leading to what’s known as a fracture. Whether you have an obvious and painful or subtle fracture, schedule an appointment with the  Twin Creeks Orthopedics & Sports Injury Clinic team in Allen, Texas. They have the expertise and experience to diagnose and treat fractures effectively. Book online or call the friendly office staff today.

What are fractures?

A fracture is a break or crack(s) in a bone and varies in severity, from a small hairline crack to a complete break where the bone separates into two or more pieces. 

They get classified into different types, such as (closed) fractures, where the bone doesn’t pierce the skin, and compound (open) fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin. 

Other types include stress fractures, which develop over time due to repetitive force, and comminuted fractures, where the bone shatters into multiple pieces.

Do fractures always have symptoms?

While fractures typically cause noticeable symptoms, some may go undetected, especially if small or in areas with fewer pain receptors. Common symptoms include:

• Pain at the site of the fracture
• Swelling and bruising
• Difficulty moving or using the affected area
• Deformity (in more severe cases)
• Popping or cracking  sound at the time of injury

However, in some cases — such as stress or hairline fractures — symptoms may be mild or develop gradually, making them harder to identify without medical imaging.

What causes fractures?

Fractures usually result from excessive force applied to a bone. Some common causes include:

• Trauma: accidents, falls, or sports injuries can place sudden stress on a bone, leading to a break
• Osteoporosis: a condition that weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures, even from minor falls or movements
• Repetitive stress: overuse injuries that can lead to stress fractures (common in athletes or individuals with physically demanding jobs)

You can also develop fractures from certain diseases, such as bone cancer or metabolic disorders that weaken bones and increase the risk.

How are fractures treated?

At Twin Creeks Orthopedics & Sports Injury Clinic, your treatment depends on the severity and location of your fracture. Common approaches include:

• Immobilization: using a cast, splint, or brace to keep the bone in place while it heals
• Reduction: manual realignment of  the bone in cases of a displaced fracture
• Surgery: includes placing metal plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the bone for severe fractures
• Physical therapy: rehabilitation to help restore strength, flexibility, and function

If you suffer from a fracture, contact the medical experts at Twin Creeks Orthopedics & Sports Injury Clinic today by phone or online.