How to treat a bone fracture
Generally, the treatment methods for bone fissures mainly include reduction therapy, immobilization therapy, drug therapy, rehabilitation exercises, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy. The specifics are as follows:
1. Reduction Therapy
After a bone fissure, the bone position may slightly shift, requiring manual or traction reduction to restore the bone to its normal anatomical position, thereby creating favorable conditions for bone healing. Manual reduction involves a doctor physically adjusting the bone alignment, while traction reduction uses mechanical force to correct displacement. After reduction, timely immobilization is essential to prevent re-displacement of the bone.
2. Immobilization Therapy
Immobilization is crucial for bone fissure healing, maintaining the corrected bone position through external or internal fixation. External fixation commonly uses plaster bandages, braces, or splints, suitable for superficial fractures with minimal displacement. Internal fixation requires surgical implantation of devices such as metal plates, screws, or pins, typically used for significantly displaced or unstable fissures. After fixation, weight-bearing on the affected limb should be avoided.
3. Drug Therapy
Drug therapy helps relieve pain and swelling caused by bone fissures and promotes bone healing. For significant pain, medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or acetaminophen tablets may be taken under medical guidance. Patients with severe swelling may take micronized purified flavonoid fraction tablets to improve local blood circulation. Additionally, supplements like calcium carbonate D3 tablets and bone peptide tablets can provide essential nutrients to support bone healing and tissue repair.
4. Rehabilitation Exercises
Rehabilitation exercises should be performed in stages under medical supervision. In the early stage, isometric muscle contraction exercises of the affected limb can help prevent muscle atrophy. During the intermediate stage, gradual joint movement exercises help restore joint mobility. In the later stage, weight-bearing exercises strengthen the affected limb. Rehabilitation should progress gradually to avoid excessive activity that could impair bone healing. Regular follow-up evaluations are necessary to adjust the exercise program based on healing progress.
5. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Therapy
According to TCM, bone fissures are associated with "injury to tendons and bones and stagnation of qi and blood." Treatment focuses on promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, mending bones, and repairing tendons. Under medical guidance, patients may use proprietary Chinese medicines such as Jiegu Qili tablets or Shangke Jiegu tablets. Acupuncture and massage therapy can also be used as complementary treatments. Acupuncture helps unblock meridians and relieve pain, while massage improves local blood circulation, reduces swelling, alleviates pain, and supports bone healing.
In addition, during treatment, patients should consume foods rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins—such as milk, eggs, soy products, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided to minimize negative impacts on bone healing. Regular X-ray reviews at the hospital are necessary to monitor healing progress. If abnormalities such as loosening of the fixation or increased pain occur, prompt medical attention is required.