Fracture treatment and geriatric fracture care
Accidents, falls, sports injuries and medical conditions can all cause fractures. A broken bone can be very painful, limit movement and disrupt daily life. With the right treatment and rehabilitation, most fractures heal well and function returns.
In older adults, bones are often weakened by osteoporosis, so a simple fall can break the hip, wrist, shoulder or spine. These geriatric fractures need prompt, careful treatment: getting an older patient moving again quickly helps prevent complications such as chest infections, blood clots and loss of independence.
Dr. Arun Dev treats fractures of all ages at Renova Hospital, Kompally, from casts and splints to fixation surgery and hip ball replacement, with physiotherapy to restore strength and balance. Patients come from Secunderabad, Alwal, Bowenpally and across Hyderabad.
Signs of a fracture
Common fractures in older adults include:
See an orthopaedic doctor promptly if you notice:
- Severe pain after a fall or injury
- Swelling and bruising around a bone or joint
- A limb that looks bent or out of shape
- Being unable to stand, walk or put weight on the leg
- Pain on moving the joint or pressing on the bone
- In older adults, new groin or back pain after even a minor fall
Treatment options for fractures
Treatment depends on the bone, the type of break, your age and your general health. An X-ray, and sometimes a CT scan, guides the plan.
How fracture surgery is done
When surgery is needed, it is usually done under spinal, regional or general anaesthesia. The main steps of fixation are:
- Assessment and planning. X-rays and, if needed, CT scans show the fracture pattern so the fixation can be planned.
- Reduction. The broken pieces are moved back into their correct position.
- Fixation. Plates, screws, rods or wires hold the bone securely while it heals; external frames are used for severe injuries.
- Checking alignment. X-ray imaging during surgery confirms that the bone is aligned and the implants are well placed.
- Closing and early movement. The wound is closed and, where possible, you start moving early with the physiotherapy team.
Rehabilitation after a fracture
Recovery after a fracture
Healing time depends on the bone and the type of fracture. Weight-bearing is increased step by step, using crutches, a walker or a wheelchair if needed.
- First days Pain control and early movement Pain is managed and, after surgery, you start moving with support.
- [Weeks 1 to 6] Protected healing The bone begins to heal; the cast or fixation protects it.
- [Weeks 6 to 12] Strength and weight-bearing X-rays check healing as weight-bearing and exercises increase.
- [Around 3 to 6 months] Back to activity Most fractures have healed and normal activities resume.
Before you decide
- Avoid untrained treatment. Fractures treated without X-rays or by untrained hands can heal in the wrong position.
- Older adults need early mobility. Long periods in bed can cause serious complications, so timely treatment matters.
- Follow the healing plan. Keep weight-bearing limits and attend X-ray reviews so the bone heals properly.
