Fracture first aid

Overview

A fracture is a broken bone. Fracture first aid means the steps you take right after a bone breaks to prevent more injury and help healing.

Yes, fractures are very common. Most people will break a bone at some point in their life.

Fractures can happen to anyone, but children and older adults are more likely to break bones. Children often have growth plate injuries, and older adults may have fractures from falls due to weaker bones.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Severe pain at the injury site
• Swelling and bruising
• A visible deformity or the bone pushing out of the skin (open fracture)
• Difficulty moving or putting weight on the injured area
• A grating sensation when you try to move the injured part

Symptoms in children

• Crying or refusing to move the injured arm or leg
• Swelling and tenderness over the growth plate (near the ends of long bones)
• A child may not be able to tell you exactly where it hurts

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain in the hip, wrist, or spine after a fall
• Inability to stand or walk
• Sudden back pain that may be a spinal fracture from weak bones

Causes

Main causes

• Falls – the most common cause, especially on stairs or slippery surfaces
• Sports injuries – from direct hits, twists, or overuse
• Vehicle accidents
• Direct blows to the bone

Risk factors

• Weak bones from osteoporosis
• Poor balance or muscle weakness
• Certain sports like football, skiing, or gymnastics
• Age – children are active and have softer bones; older adults have weaker bones

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any open fracture or heavy bleeding
• Severe pain or obvious deformity
• Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation below the injury
• You cannot move the injured area at all

Book a routine appointment if:

• Mild pain and swelling after a minor injury but you suspect a possible fracture
• Pain that lasts more than a few days after an impact

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will ask about how the injury happened and examine the injured area. They may check for tenderness, swelling, and deformity.

Tests that may be done

• X-ray – the most common test to see a break
• CT scan or MRI – if the X-ray is unclear or to check for hidden fractures

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will order an X-ray, which takes a few minutes. You may need to wait in a hospital emergency department if the fracture is serious. They will tell you the results and explain treatment.

Treatment

Treatment for a fracture aims to realign the bone, keep it still so it can heal, and manage pain. First aid is the first step before you see a doctor.

Self-care at home

• Keep the injured area completely still – do not move or try to straighten the bone
• Apply a cold pack (ice wrapped in a cloth) for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day
• Support the limb with a sling (for arm fractures) or a pillow (for leg fractures)
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by a pharmacist or doctor – but never give aspirin to children

Medical treatments

A doctor will set the bone back into place (called reduction) if needed. Then they will immobilize it with a plaster cast, a splint, or a brace. You may be given pain medications and instructions to keep weight off the limb. Physiotherapy is often recommended to regain strength and movement after the cast is removed.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be needed for fractures that are very unstable, open (bone through skin), or involve joints. Metal pins, plates, or screws may be used to hold the bone in place.

Living with this condition

Healing a fracture takes time – usually 6 to 8 weeks for most bones. During that time, you will need to adjust daily activities. For example, you may need help with dressing, bathing, or cooking if your arm is in a cast. For leg fractures, you may use crutches or a walker.

Lifestyle tips

• Follow your doctor's advice about weight-bearing – do not put weight on the injured leg too soon
• Keep the cast dry – use a plastic bag when showering
• Do gentle exercises recommended by your physiotherapist to prevent stiffness and muscle loss

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium (dairy, leafy greens) and vitamin D (sunlight, fortified foods) to help bone healing. Do the exercises your physiotherapist advises once the cast is off to rebuild strength and range of motion.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A fracture can be frustrating and may cause feelings of helplessness or sadness, especially if it limits your independence. It is normal to feel this way. Talk to your healthcare provider if you feel very down or anxious.

Prevention

Not all fractures can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by keeping bones strong and avoiding falls. This includes regular weight‑bearing exercise (walking, dancing), eating calcium‑rich foods, getting enough vitamin D, and making your home safer (removing loose rugs, using handrails).

Complications

If left untreated

• The bone may heal in a wrong position (malunion)
• The bone may not heal at all (nonunion)
• Infection, especially with open fractures
• Nerve or blood vessel damage

Long-term outlook

With proper first aid and medical treatment, most fractures heal well. You can expect to return to your normal activities within a few months. Following your doctor's and physiotherapist's advice gives you the best chance of a full recovery.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.