Fractures and trauma
A fracture is a break in a bone. It can follow a fall, a road accident or a sports injury, and in people with weak bones even a minor fall. Early assessment helps the bone heal in the right position.
Common symptoms
- Pain and tenderness over a bone
- Swelling or bruising
- Deformity or an abnormal shape of the limb
- Inability to use or bear weight on the limb
- Numbness or tingling below the injury
Common causes
- Falls, including falls at home
- Road traffic accidents
- Sports and workplace injuries
- Weak bones (osteoporosis) in older adults
- Repeated stress on a bone, causing a stress fracture
When to see an orthopaedic doctor
- Any injury with persistent pain or swelling
- Difficulty using the limb after a fall
- Pain that is getting worse instead of better
- A fracture that was treated elsewhere and needs follow-up
Seek urgent care if you have
- A bone piercing the skin, or any open wound over a fracture
- Obvious deformity of an arm or leg
- A cold, pale or numb limb below the injury
- Injury to the head, neck or back, or heavy bleeding
Go to the nearest emergency department. Do not wait for a clinic appointment.
What to expect at your consultation
- 01
Tell us your concern
Describe when it began, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your day.
- 02
Examination
The doctor checks movement, strength, swelling and tenderness of the affected area.
- 03
Tests, only if needed
X-rays or other tests are suggested only when they will help decide the next step.
- 04
Discuss the plan
You will hear the likely cause, the options available and what to expect next.
Common questions
What should I do before reaching the clinic?
Keep the injured part as still as you can, avoid pressing on it, and do not try to straighten it. Go to the nearest emergency department if any urgent sign above is present.
Does every fracture need surgery?
No. Treatment depends on the bone, the type of break and your health. The doctor will explain the options after examination and imaging.
This page is general health information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an examination by a doctor. Treatment depends on your individual situation.
Other guides
All conditionsKnee pain
Pain, swelling or stiffness around the knee, with or without a recent injury.
Read the guideHip pain
Pain in the groin, outer hip or buttock that affects walking, sitting or sleeping.
Read the guideBack pain
Pain in the lower or upper back, sometimes spreading into the leg.
Read the guideNeck pain
Neck stiffness or pain, sometimes with pain or tingling in the shoulder and arm.
Read the guide