Photo: from open sources
You may not even feel a closed fracture right away.
When ice appears on the roads, cases of limb injuries become more frequent. In this case, you can get by with only a bruise, or you can get a serious injury that will take time to heal.
RBC-Ukraine, with reference to a post by the Ministry of Health on Facebook, tells what to do if you suspect you have a fracture and what they are.
What are the types of fractures?
Medicine distinguishes between two types of fractures: open and closed. From the names it is clear that an open fracture is visible from the outside, and it is much worse than the symptoms. You may not even feel a closed fracture right away.
All fractures are characterized by:
- sharp pain with any movement or exertion
- change in position and shape of a limb
- limb shortening
- limb dysfunction
- swelling and bruising in the fracture area
An open fracture is characterized by an open wound that hurts and possibly bleeds. With a closed fracture, the skin remains intact, but a hematoma, bruise or swelling may appear at the site of injury. You will also feel pain.
What to do if you have a limb injury
With an open fracture, the functions of the injured limb are impaired. It may become unusually mobile or take on an unnatural position. In this case you need:
- cut the clothes and examine the wound
- if there is bleeding, stop it by applying a bandage or hemostatic tourniquet above the wound
- After stopping the bleeding, apply a sterile, clean bandage to the wound
- help the injured person into a position that causes the slightest pain
- If you have received appropriate training, immobilize the injured limb. If you don’t have the required qualifications, don’t touch them.
- cover the person with a thermal blanket or blanket
- keep an eye on her until the doctors arrive
- If your condition worsens before the emergency team arrives, call 103 again
A closed fracture is also characterized by pain, abnormal positioning, or deformity of the limb. In this case it is necessary:
- help the injured person into a position that causes the slightest pain
- If you have undergone appropriate training, immobilize the injured limb, but if you do not have the necessary qualifications, do not touch it.
- cover the person with a thermal blanket or blanket
- constantly monitor the person until doctors arrive
- if her condition worsens before the emergency team arrives, call 103 again
To avoid injury outdoors, wear shoes and clothing that are appropriate for the season; plan a little more time for movement so as not to rush; pull your hands out of your pockets when you walk; watch where you are going carefully.
