Fractures
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Acclaim Foot and Ankle Center
David F. Corcoran, DPM
Podiatrist located in Phoenix, AZ & Scottsdale, AZ
Is it a sprain, a strain, or a fracture? The best way to tell if you’ve broken a bone is to visit a qualified podiatrist. For patients in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona, Dr. David F. Corcoran, DPM, offers customized care and treatment plans for broken bones and other foot-related problems. At Acclaim Foot & Ankle Center, you’ll find a knowledgeable, educated staff who can help you quickly get back on your feet and make a full recovery. Call or book an appointment online today to get started.
Fractures Q & A
What is a fracture?
Some people get confused when it comes to foot and ankle injuries, as a sprain, a strain, or a fracture might produce similar symptoms. Unlike a sprain or a strain, which affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, a fracture happens when a bone cracks or breaks. In some cases, a bone might not break all the way through. In others, it snaps completely in half.
The severity of a fracture usually depends on what caused it, as well as how much force the body sustained in the impact. In severe cases, a fracture can cause the bone to protrude through the skin, which requires special treatment to avoid infection.
What are the symptoms of a fracture?
If you have a fracture, you might experience a wide range of symptoms. Some of the most common signs of a fracture are:
- Swelling and bruising
- Extreme pain
- Discolored skin
- Inflammation
- Inability to put weight on the area
- Immobility
- Deformity
After a fracture, you might also experience symptoms of nausea, dizziness, or a feeling of general unease. Left untreated, the symptoms of a fracture usually get worse and the pain may increase.
How are fractures treated?
The first step to treating a fracture is to determine the exact location of the break and the severity of the injury. Dr. Corcoran may recommend X-rays or other diagnostic tests. Depending on your injury, you might need a cast to help with immobilization. Anti-inflammatory injections or medications can assist with swelling and inflammation. In more severe cases and in patients who have a displaced fracture, it’s possible you’ll need to explore your surgical options with Dr. Corcoran.
During your healing, it’s important to keep weight off of your foot when possible and to avoid activities that may stress the area.
With the right treatment, fractures can heal easily and you can return to your normal activities within several weeks. If you’d like to have your symptoms diagnosed by a qualified physician, contact Acclaim Foot & Ankle Center today. Call or book a consultation online to get started and get on the road to recovery.
