Emergency Care for Broken Bones

Jeanne Shipp has spent many years working in the medical industry. First as a registered nurse, and then as co-founder of Patients Emergency Room and Hospitality Health ER in Texas. Jeanne Shipp specializes in emergency medical care. One of the most common reasons for emergency room visits is bone fractures.

An estimated 6.3 million bone fractures happen in the United States each year, or two out of every 100 Americans. Broken bones can cause limbs and joints to come out of place and lead to intense pain, swelling, and inability to move. It is vital to seek treatment right away. An ER doctor treats the pain and performs X-rays and CT scans. They see the extent of the fracture and determine the next steps. The injury may require surgery if the bone has penetrated the skin.

Bone fractures take an average of four to six weeks to heal, depending on age, severity, and location of the injury. Evidence suggests that gentle exercise may help fractures heal faster. Exercise promotes circulation that stimulates repair and regeneration of the bones. A diet rich in plant-based proteins and anti-inflammatory nutrients may expedite the healing process too.