Orthopedic Urgent Care for Broken Bones in Maui, Wailuku, HI

Orthopedic emergencies require immediate medical attention to prevent further damage or disability. These emergencies can include fractures, dislocations, and sprains that can cause severe pain, swelling, and impaired mobility. Timely and appropriate medical intervention is critical in preventing further damage and ensuring proper healing. Delayed treatment can lead to complications, such as chronic pain, deformities, and permanent disabilities.

Identifying orthopedic emergencies involves recognizing the signs and symptoms of the condition and performing a physical examination and diagnostic tests to determine the extent of the injury. Signs and symptoms of orthopedic emergencies can include severe pain, swelling, deformity, and impaired mobility. Diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI, can help identify the extent of the injury and determine the appropriate treatment plan. It is essential to differentiate between urgent and non-urgent orthopedic conditions to prioritize medical care.

Treatment and management of orthopedic emergencies depend on the severity and extent of the injury. Immediate first aid measures, such as immobilization, ice application, and pain management, can help reduce pain and swelling. Medical and surgical interventions, such as reduction, fixation, and casting, may be required to stabilize the injury and promote healing. Rehabilitation and follow-up care, such as physical and occupational therapy, can help restore mobility and function and prevent complications.

Orthopedic surgeons are medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. One of the most common injuries that orthopedic surgeons treat is broken bones, which can occur due to various reasons such as sports injuries, car accidents, or falls.

If you break a bone: You may hear or feel a popping or grinding sound during the injury. There may be swelling, bruising, or tenderness over the injured area. You may feel pain when you push, touch, squeeze, or move the wound.

If a fracture is left untreated, it can seriously affect your quality of life. If you suspect a fracture, it’s best to go to an emergency room in your area as soon as possible.

When a bone is broken, the body initiates a complex healing process to repair the damage. The healing process usually involves the following four stages:

• Hematoma formation
• Inflammation
• Callus formation
• Remodeling

During the hematoma formation phase, a blood clot forms at the fracture site, providing a framework for the formation of new bone tissue. During the inflammatory phase, the body sends immune cells to the affected area to remove damaged tissue and debris. The callus formation phase involves the formation of new bone tissue and stabilization of the fracture through callus formation. In the final remodeling phase, the cornea is replaced by new bone tissue, restoring bone strength and function.

When a patient presents with a broken bone, the orthopedic surgeon will conduct a comprehensive medical history and physical examination to evaluate the extent and location of the fracture. They will also order diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to get a better view of the injury. The initial assessment is crucial in determining the severity of the fracture and the appropriate treatment plan. For example, a simple fracture may only require immobilization or casting, while a more complex fracture may require surgery.

The treatment options for broken bones can vary depending on the severity and location of the fracture. Non-surgical treatment options such as immobilization or casting may be used for less severe fractures, while surgical treatment options such as internal fixation or external fixation may be necessary for more complex fractures. Factors that influence the choice of treatment options include the patient’s age, overall health, and the location and severity of the fracture. For example, older patients may be more prone to complications from surgery, so non-surgical options may be preferred.

After surgery or non-surgical treatment, the orthopedic surgeon will monitor the patient’s recovery and rehabilitation process. They will provide pain management and physical therapy to help the patient regain strength and mobility. Follow-up appointments will be conducted to assess the healing process and ensure the bone has properly healed. In some cases, additional surgery or treatment may be necessary if the bone does not heal properly. Treatment for orthopedic conditions is available at North Shore Orthopedics.We serve patients from Maui, Wailuku HI, Lahaina HI, Kahului HI, Kihei HI, Wailuku HI, Kula HI, Makawao HI, Paia HI, Wailea HI, Haiku HI, and Waihee-Waiehu HI.