Low energy injuries (such as falls from a standing height), usually result in less complex fracture patterns and less soft tissue injury.  Typical symptoms of a fracture include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Deformity
• Instability
• Weakness
• Difficulty weight bearing/walking

Lower energy injuries can be missed and may be passed off as ‘sprains’ or ‘strains’.  If you have had an injury that is not responding to treatment, it is advisable to see your doctor and obtain X-Rays to evaluate you for fractures, sprains or other conditions which may require treatment. .

Higher energy injuries (such as motorcycle and car crashes) typically fracture bones in multiple places, into smaller pieces, and commonly disrupt the soft tissues resulting in large amounts of bruising and swelling.  These can be challenging to treat and frequently require surgery to restore the bones to their anatomical position to make healing quicker and your function better in the long term.

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON LOWER LIMB INJURIES & BROKEN BONES

If you suspect that you’ve broken a bone as a result of trauma or indirect force, speak to a medical professional. A failure to treat a fracture can result in improper healing, potentially leading to misalignment, limited movement, compromised biomechanics, pain and arthritis. Prompt treatment to a fracture can also help to prevent further damage to surrounding joints, muscles and tissues which can impede your recovery and cause further problems.

Dr David Slattery has extensive experience provide consultation for patients suffering broken bones or lower limb fractures. A range of conservative treatment options are available, from bracing and casting to physiotherapy and surgical intervention – detailed here. 

Dr Slattery endeavours to see all fracture patients within 24 hours of initial enquiry. Contact his Melbourne Rooms at the Glenferrie Private Hospital on 03 5752 5020 or call 0417 034 985 for after hours fractures and emergencies.