Broken Leg

Overview

A broken leg (leg fracture) is a break or crack in one of the bones in your leg, commonly caused by falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries. The thighbone (femur) is the strongest bone in the body, and a break in this bone is usually obvious due to the significant force required. However, breaks in the shinbone (tibia) or the bone alongside the shinbone (fibula) may be less obvious. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, an obvious deformity or shortening of the affected leg, and inability to walk. If you or your child experience these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly, as delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to complications.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

Symptoms of a broken leg may include severe pain that worsens with movement, swelling, tenderness, bruising, obvious deformity or shortening of the affected leg, and inability to walk.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing a broken leg include:

1. Child abuse: In children, a broken leg may be the result of child abuse, especially when such an injury occurs before the child can walk.
2. Overuse: Stress fractures are tiny cracks that develop in the weight-bearing bones of the body, including the shinbone. Stress fractures are usually caused by repetitive force or overuse, such as running long distances. But they can occur with regular use of a bone that's been weakened by a condition such as osteoporosis.
3. Physical activities: Engaging in sports or activities that involve repetitive stress to the leg bones, such as running, ballet dancing, basketball, marching, or contact sports like hockey and football, may increase the risk of a broken leg.
4. Decreased bone density: Individuals with conditions such as osteoporosis may have a higher risk of stress fractures, including broken legs.
5. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can also increase the risk of stress fractures and broken legs. Remember that preventive measures like maintaining good overall health, engaging in regular exercise, and wearing appropriate safety gear during physical activities can help reduce the risk of broken legs.

Development

A broken leg can develop due to a variety of reasons, including:

1. Falls: A simple fall from a standing height or higher can fracture one or both of the lower leg bones (tibia and fibula). Higher impact is usually required to break the thighbone (femur).
2. Motor vehicle accidents: Car or motorcycle accidents can result in high-impact injuries that can cause fractures in the leg bones.
3. Sports injuries: Participating in sports like running, basketball, or football can expose the leg bones to repetitive stress that can lead to stress fractures, especially if the bones are weakened by conditions such as osteoporosis.
4. Direct blows: Contact sports or accidents where the leg is hit directly can result in fractures.
5. Overuse: Prolonged or repetitive physical activities can lead to stress fractures in the leg bones, especially in cases of decreased bone density (osteoporosis) or other underlying health conditions. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect a broken leg due to the risk of complications such as nerve or blood vessel damage, compartment syndrome, or unequal leg length.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

You should see a doctor promptly if you suspect a broken leg due to the following reasons:

1. Severe pain that worsens with movement.
2. Swelling, tenderness, or bruising in the affected area.
3. Obvious deformity or shortening of the leg.
4. Inability to walk or bear weight on the leg.
5. Toddlers or young children displaying symptoms like limping or stopping to walk without an apparent reason. It is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment, which can help prevent further complications and promote proper healing. In cases of high-impact trauma or severe breaks, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a broken leg typically involves a physical exam by a healthcare provider, followed by imaging tests such as X-rays, which can pinpoint the location of the break and determine the extent of the injury to any adjacent joints. In some cases, additional imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs may be needed for a more detailed evaluation, especially for suspected stress fractures that may not show up on X-rays.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Complications of a broken leg may include: knee or ankle pain, bone infection (osteomyelitis), poor or delayed healing, and nerve or blood vessel damage. Seek immediate medical help if you notice any numbness, pale skin, or circulation problems.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for a broken leg, you can make a list that includes:

1. Detailed descriptions of the symptoms and the cause of the injury, such as how the break occurred and any associated pain or discomfort.
2. Information about any past medical problems, including previous injuries or surgeries.
3. A list of all medications and dietary supplements you or your child takes, including doses.
4. Questions you want to ask the healthcare provider, such as:
   • How long will it take for the break to heal?
   • Will I need a cast or other immobilization device?
   • How long will I need to wear the cast or device?
   • Will I need physical therapy or further treatment?
   • What activity restrictions should be followed during the healing process?
   • Are there any potential complications or risks I should be aware of?
   • What pain management options are available?
5. Consider bringing a family member or friend along to the appointment to help remember the information provided by the healthcare provider. Remember to be open and honest with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns, and don't hesitate to ask any additional questions you may have.