Fractures—commonly known as broken bones—can range from minor cracks to severe, complex breaks. While some fractures can heal with simple immobilization, others may require surgical intervention and specialized orthopedic care to ensure proper healing and function.
As a Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon in Pimpri-Chinchwad, I frequently evaluate and treat patients with different types of fractures. Knowing when to seek orthopedic help can make the difference between full recovery and long-term complications.
What Is a Fracture?
A fracture occurs when the continuity of a bone is disrupted due to trauma, overuse, or underlying medical conditions like osteoporosis.
Common causes include:
- Falls or accidents
- Sports injuries
- Road traffic collisions
- Repetitive stress or overuse
- Bone weakening diseases (e.g., osteoporosis or cancer)
Types of Bone Fractures
Fractures can vary in severity and complexity. In my Pimpri-Chinchwad orthopedic practice, I treat a wide range of fracture types, including:
1. Closed (Simple) Fracture
The bone breaks but does not pierce the skin.
2. Open (Compound) Fracture
The bone breaks and protrudes through the skin—requires urgent surgical care to prevent infection.
3. Greenstick Fracture
An incomplete fracture commonly seen in children, where the bone bends and cracks but doesn’t break completely.
4. Comminuted Fracture
The bone shatters into multiple pieces—often requires surgical fixation.
5. Stress Fracture
Tiny cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, common in athletes.
6. Displaced vs. Non-Displaced
In a displaced fracture, the bone fragments are out of alignment and may require surgery.
Signs You May Have a Fracture
- Sudden, sharp pain after an injury
- Swelling or bruising around the area
- Difficulty moving or bearing weight
- Visible deformity or bone protrusion
- Inability to use the affected limb or joint
When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon for a Fracture
While minor fractures may heal with splints or casting, others demand specialized orthopedic evaluation and surgical care.
You should consult an orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Ashutosh Dongre in Pimpri-Chinchwad if:
- The fracture is displaced, open, or comminuted
- You hear a snap or grinding sound during injury
- There’s persistent or severe pain
- The joint or limb appears deformed
- You’re unable to move the affected area
- The injury affects a weight-bearing bone (hip, leg, ankle)
- Healing isn’t progressing with initial treatment
Prompt orthopedic assessment ensures that bones are realigned properly and prevents long-term issues like chronic pain, malunion (improper healing), or joint stiffness.
How Are Fractures Diagnosed?
At my clinic in Pimpri-Chinchwad, we use:
- Physical examination
- X-rays to assess bone position and severity
- CT scans or MRI (for complex or joint-related fractures)
Treatment Options for Fractures
Fracture management depends on the location, type, severity, and the patient’s age and activity level.
1. Non-Surgical (Conservative) Treatment
Used for simple, non-displaced fractures:
- Immobilization with casts, splints, or braces
- Pain management with medications
- Physiotherapy during and after immobilization
2. Surgical Treatment
Required for severe, unstable, or displaced fractures:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) – realigning the bone and securing it with metal plates, screws, or rods
- External Fixation – temporary stabilization using pins and external frames
- Intramedullary Nailing – inserting rods inside the bone for stabilization
- Bone Grafting, if the fracture is complex or the bone is missing
As an experienced orthopedic surgeon, I offer minimally invasive fracture surgeries in Pimpri-Chinchwad whenever possible for reduced recovery time and better outcomes.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Healing times vary depending on the bone involved and the treatment method:
- Minor fractures: 4–6 weeks
- Major or surgical fractures: 8–12 weeks or longer
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in: - Restoring strength and range of motion
- Preventing stiffness and muscle wasting
- Ensuring safe return to daily activities or sports
Tips for Faster Healing
- Follow all immobilization or post-op instructions
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Do not put weight on healing limbs unless advised
- Attend follow-up appointments for progress checks
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if I need surgery for a fracture?
A: If the fracture is open, displaced, or involves joint surfaces, or if bones are misaligned, surgery may be needed. Consult Dr. Ashutosh Dongre, orthopedic surgeon in Pimpri-Chinchwad, for a precise evaluation.
Q: Can a fracture heal without a cast?
A: Some minor or non-weight-bearing fractures may be managed with braces or slings, but proper immobilization is critical for healing.
Q: What are the risks of not treating a fracture properly?
A: Risks include non-union, malunion, chronic pain, deformity, and loss of function. Early treatment ensures proper alignment and faster healing.
Q: Will I need physiotherapy after a fracture?
A: Yes, physiotherapy is essential to regain mobility, strength, and prevent stiffness after immobilization or surgery.
Expert Fracture Management in Pimpri-Chinchwad
If you or a loved one has sustained a bone injury, don't delay seeking orthopedic care. At my orthopedic clinic in Pimpri-Chinchwad, I provide timely diagnosis, accurate treatment, and complete rehabilitation guidance for all types of fractures—from simple to complex.
About Dr. Ashutosh Dongre
Dr. Ashutosh Dongre is a trusted Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon based in Pimpri-Chinchwad, with extensive expertise in trauma and fracture care, joint injuries, and surgical orthopedic solutions. His patient-centric approach ensures safe, effective, and long-lasting recovery.
Need expert care for a fracture?
Book a consultation with Dr. Ashutosh Dongre for advanced fracture management and orthopedic care in Pimpri-Chinchwad.
AboutMyClinic