Fractures & Injuries Specialist
If you think you may have a fractured or injured bone, and it looks swollen, red, or dislocated, it’s time to seek the help of a professional. Harvey Manes, MD of Wellwood Orthopedics has been serving the Lindenhurst, Long Island, New York area for more than 40 years and has the experience and know-how you’re looking for. Whether you have a minor fracture or are in need of extensive surgery, he can help. Call the office to learn more for your initial consultation today.
Fractures & Injuries Q & A
What causes a fracture?
While your bones are meant to give or bend slightly when force is applied, they’re still rigid. When met with excessive pressures, they can break or fracture. Sometimes, when the force isn’t extreme, the bone may only partially break. At other times, it can shatter into pieces.
The most common causes of bone fractures include:
- Trauma, including a car accident or fall
- Overuse, especially with stress fractures
- Osteoporosis, which weakens bones
Are there different types of bone fractures?
When bones fracture, they can do so in different ways, including across the bone, lengthwise, or in multiple places. Some of the most common types of fractures include:
Stable fracture
In a stable fracture, the bone breaks, but the broken ends are still in place, or close to it.
Open fracture
Also called a compound fracture, an open fracture results when a broken bone pierces the skin or the skin tears during the break. Sometimes the bone is visible, while other times it’s not.
Transverse fracture
A transverse fracture runs horizontally down your bone.
Oblique fracture
Oblique fractures are created at an angle and may vary across the break.
Comminuted fracture
Severe forces, such as gunshots or car accidents, usually cause comminuted fractures. With these fractures, the bone shatters into at least three pieces.
How are bone fractures and injuries treated?
If you’ve experienced a bone fracture or injury, Dr. Manes may use a variety of treatment methods to help your bones heal correctly, including:
Immobilization
Dr. Manes repositions your broken bone, then immobilizes it with a plaster or fiberglass cast. That allows your body’s healing process to mend the bone.
Functional cast or brace
In some cases, he may recommend using a brace or cast that allows for controlled joint movements.
Traction
If your bones need realigning, Dr. Manes may use a traction device to pull them into place steadily.
Surgery
As a last resort to put the pieces of bone back together and if conservative treatment does not work surgery would be necessary.