5 Hidden Signs of a Fracture That Might Need an X-Ray Today

When most of us think of breaking a bone, we think of dramatic injuries like the kinds that are typically shown in movies. But the truth is, while some fractures can cause dramatic signs, others can be surprisingly subtle and much harder to detect. In fact, some fracture symptoms can be mistaken for other issues — and that means critical care can be delayed.

In these instances, having a prompt X-ray plays an important part in making sure you get the treatment you need before more serious problems develop. In this month’s blog, our team at Minit Medical Urgent Care and Physical Therapy explains five hidden warning signs that could mean it’s time to schedule an onsite X-ray appointment.

1. Worsening pain

While sprains and strains usually feel better after a day or two of rest and TLC, fracture pain often gets worse over time. If you find yourself needing constant pain relief or avoiding normal movement because of discomfort, it’s important to call our office right away. An X-ray is the first step in diagnosing the cause of your symptoms, relieving your pain, and preventing complications.

2. Persistent or worsening swelling

Sprains, strains, and other soft-tissue injuries can cause dramatic swelling, particularly in the hours or so after an injury. This type of swelling typically responds well to the application of ice along with a period of rest. With a fracture, though, swelling tends to persist despite TLC, often becoming worse over time instead of better.

3. Instability or difficulty bearing weight

Even a minor fracture can interfere with the way you use your arms, legs, fingers, or toes. Many fractures cause increasing pain when bearing weight or bending a joint. Others may give rise to weakness or instability when using a limb. 

4. Limited movement or stiffness

Fractures can also cause limited range of motion in a joint or limb, or even prevent normal range of motion. Stiffness often develops alongside worsening swelling, or as you change your movements to reduce pain and protect the injured area.

Many people associated reduced range of movement with visible signs, like a disfigured joint or bone. But limited mobility or painful stiffness can happen even when the affected body part appears completely normal.

5. Tenderness in one specific spot

While sprains and other soft tissue injuries tend to cause pain and discomfort over a broader area, fractures are typically associated with more focused pain. Pressing the area over the fracture is likely to cause significant pain and tenderness, with or without visible bruising.

The right treatment for your injury

X-rays play an important role in helping you get the best treatment for a fracture, but they’re also important for ruling out fractures so we can check for other potential reasons for your pain. In any event, an X-ray is often the first step in making sure you get the care you need to relieve pain and to prevent further complications.

If you have any type of unexplained pain, swelling, or bruising after an injury, don’t ignore it. Request an appointment online or over the phone with Minit Medical Urgent Care and Physical Therapy in Kihei, Kahului, and Lahaina, Hawaii, today.