Fractures & Dislocations
Bone fractures and dislocations are unsettling. They occur during force or impact to a specific part of the body. Even the smallest hair line fracture or mild dislocation require proper care.
At VSMD, we diagnose and treat fractures and dislocations. Whether you suffer from a broken arm or leg, dislocated finger or shoulder, or a stress fracture, we will provide you the best care. Our doctors are trained to splint, cast, and manage your fracture or dislocation. We splint and cast in the office. We offer a comprehensive review of the injured area to assess for soft tissue injury that may occur with the bone injury. Throughout the healing process, we frequently evaluate your progress and address any issues and questions you may have.
In addition to the acute care of your injury, VSMD will provide an individualized return-to-play plan. As you get back to your activities, you may be fitted for an orthotic, or brace, if necessary. We understand that each injury is different and there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to getting you back to your sport, activity, and life.
VSMD Approach to Fractures & Dislocations
In-office evaluation to include comprehensive history and physical exam
X-ray imaging of the injury
Cast, splint, or reduce the fracture or dislocation
Develop a treatment plan with timeline
Monitored recovery through follow-up visits
Individualized “Return-to-Play” plan
Fractures & Dislocations - Signs to Look For
Causes
Bracing for impact during falls
Osteoporosis or brittle bones
Contact or collision sports
Motor vehicle accidents
Lose ligaments prone to dislocation and injury
Symptoms
Immovable
Immediate pain right after the injury
Bruising & swelling around the injury site
Tender to touch
Visibly deformed or out of place
Complications
Injury to ligaments, tendons, and muscles surrounding the injury
Nerve or blood vessel damage around the injury site
Re-injury if not managed or healed properly
Aches and pain during activity
Arthritis due to wear and tear of ligaments, tendons, and muscles
Fracture and Dislocation Details
A fracture is a break in a bone. Fractures may be complete (all the way through the bone) or incomplete (affecting only a portion of the bone). There are various classifications based on the bone fractured, what the fracture looks like, and how the fracture was sustained. VSMD recognizes the life changing impact a fracture may have. We evaluate and treat each fracture according to evidenced based medicine with special attention to your unique situation.
A dislocation is a separation of a joint, where two or more bones articulate. Dislocations can be complete or partial (subluxation). An example of a complete dislocation is when the shoulder joint pops out – i.e. the ball is removed from the socket. An example of a subluxation is when the shoulder pops out and then immediately slides back into place. VSMD recognizes the impact a dislocation has on one’s ability to function in daily life and athletics. We evaluate and treat each dislocation according to the latest evidence based data. It is our priority to ensure a safe and detailed return to activity plan for each patient.
If there is a concern for fracture or dislocation, then an evaluation is necessary.
The doctor will determine the severity of injury.
In sports, the common question is… “When can I return to play?” The doctor will work closely with the athlete (or non-athlete) to determine a safe return to play and activity plan.
This plan is different for everyone. The doctor will take a holistic approach to getting you back to your life.
An important thing to remember is that fracture and dislocation injuries require proper care and healing to prevent re-injury.
