Fractures
A fracture is a break in the bone and is caused by a direct or indirect force.
There are two different types of fractures:
- Closed fracture = fracture without a visible wound
- Open fracture = fracture with a visible wound in the area of the fracture.
Fractures are common with the following types of sport:
Skiing, horse riding, gymnastics and team sports such as football
Symptoms
- pain
- swelling
- relieving posture
- imitation of movement or inability to move, or also abnormal mobility
- Sometimes one can see an unnatural position or a bend in the extremities. Deformities, angulation (abnormal positioning of the limbs) Sometimes one can see that the extremities are in an unnatural position
- grinding or grating sounds
- wounds
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Risks
- internal an external bleeding
- shock caused by loss of blood and pain
- infections in open fractures
- injured nerves and blood vessels
First Aid
- The affected part of the body should not be moved, as the sharp ends of the broken bone could cause other injuries.
- Cover up open fractures with sterile bandages.
- Rest the fractured limb on a well cushioned surface.
- If there are any signs of shock, place the injured person in the shock position (with legs up)
- Recovery only takes place once removed from direct danger.
- Remain calm! Stay with the injured person and calm him/her down. Regularly check consciousness, breathing and pulse.
- Remove restricting clothing!
- Cold packs may be used to help reduce pain and swelling on closed fractures.
- Call the emergency services!
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