Hairline fracture what is it

In some cases, a doctor may recommend protective footwear, a splint, or the use of crutches to minimise strain placed on the fractured bone during movement. In rare cases, a hairline fracture can be severe enough to warrant surgery if it does not heal on its own.

Sometimes, hairline fractures can be difficult to prevent. For example, in those who engage in high impact sports or who have certain conditions, such as osteoporosis. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area. New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

Article by Aaron Kandola Found on MedicalNewsToday Hairline fractures may also occur in the upper limb and are often related to falls or accidents. Contents of this article: What causes a hairline fracture? Who is at risk? Symptoms How is it diagnosed? Treatment Prevention. Fast facts on hairline fractures: Hairline fractures can occur from overuse or repetitive activity. The pain can also be severe when putting stress on the arm during a workout.

A doctor will perform tests and recommend treatment. Treatment for a hairline fracture looks different than that of a more severe fracture. You should also rest your arm and use ice to control the pain. The doctor may recommend taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications.

While hairline fractures are small, they can take about six to eight weeks to heal. You will likely need to see your doctor for several follow-up appointments to check that your arm is healing correctly. In the meantime, be sure to take a break from sports and workouts as directed by the doctor. Using your arm too much can cause the hairline fracture to worsen, which can lengthen the healing process.

Our website medical library has several articles on all of the injuries listed below. To schedule an appointment for physical therapy at one of the 12 JOI Rehab Centers, please call How Do Hairline Fractures Occur? Tenderness to touch. Reduced pain at rest. Gender: More common in women past menopause due to the decrease in estrogen levels. Bone problems: conditions that weaken bones such as osteoporosis, or medications that affect bone density and strength.

Diet imbalances: Lack of the right nutrients such as calcium or vitamin D can weaken bones. People with eating disorders are also at risk as they can be missing some essential nutrients. Improper technique during exercise or activity. Improper equipment. How are Hairline Fractures in the Arm Diagnosed? Localized Pain in response to pressure is often key in helping your doctor to make a diagnosis. X-ray: Hairline fractures in the arm often are not visible on X-rays immediately after injury.

They often become visible a few weeks after the pain begins. Magnetic resonance imaging MRI : This is usually the best method of detecting a hairline fracture and often does a better job than X-ray of determining the type of fracture.

Nuclear bone scan: This can assess things such as a painful broken elbow or hairline fracture Treatment of a Hairline Fracture Forearm Bones: If you suspect a hairline fracture, the following are first aid treatments that can be performed prior to seeing a doctor: Follow the RICE method: Rest.