When you hear a crack, it might not be thunder. Bone fractures happen more often than we think, and orthopaedic clinics are the go-to for patching things up. Whether it’s a fall from a bike or a slip on a wet floor, these clinics deal with various fracture types daily. If you’re wondering what a bone specialist in Singapore usually sees across their clinic desk, here’s the lowdown.

Simple Fractures

Also known as closed fractures, these are breaks where the bone snaps but stays under the skin. They may not look dramatic, but they still need professional care. X-rays help confirm the type and position of the break. Treatments often involve immobilisation, with casts or splints doing the heavy lifting.

Compound Fractures

Compound fractures raise the stakes. These involve a break where the bone pierces through the skin. That means there’s a risk of infection and usually a need for orthopaedic surgery in Singapore. Cleaning the wound, aligning the bone, and possibly inserting hardware like pins or plates are common steps in managing this injury.

Comminuted Fractures

When the bone doesn’t break in one or two pieces but shatters into several fragments, it’s known as a comminuted fracture. These are often seen in high-impact accidents like road collisions. Recovery takes time, and surgery may be required. A bone specialist in Singapore would often plan imaging follow-ups to ensure all the tiny pieces are healing in harmony.

Greenstick Fractures

Children have softer, more flexible bones. This makes them prone to greenstick fractures, where the bone bends and cracks without snapping completely. It’s a common sight in paediatric patients. Treatment usually involves gentle repositioning and bracing, allowing the bone to straighten as it heals.

Spiral Fractures

A spiral fracture happens when a twisting force causes the bone to break along a spiral line. These injuries often show up in sports-related mishaps. Due to the unique shape of the break, stabilisation is key. Depending on how clean the twist is, orthopaedic surgery in Singapore might be advised to ensure proper alignment.

Stress Fractures

Sometimes, bones don’t break all at once. Repetitive motion or overuse can cause small cracks, known as stress fractures. These are frequent among runners or athletes. Rest and activity modification are usually the frontline treatment. If ignored, the fracture can widen, making recovery longer than a marathon.

Impacted Fractures

An impacted fracture occurs when the ends of the broken bone are driven into each other. This can happen during a fall where the body absorbs the force through one limb. While it sounds bad, this type can sometimes be more stable than others. A bone specialist in Singapore may still recommend immobilisation or surgical support, depending on the situation.

Oblique Fractures

Oblique fractures occur at an angle across the bone. The slanted break may look clean on an X-ray, but movement can cause the edges to shift. Treatment varies depending on whether the break remains stable during healing. Orthopaedic clinics keep a close eye with scheduled check-ups.

Compression Fractures

Seen more often in older adults, particularly those with osteoporosis, compression fractures typically affect the spine. The vertebrae get squashed, leading to pain and height loss. A bone specialist in Singapore may recommend rest, pain control, or procedures like vertebroplasty if the collapse is severe.

Let’s Wrap It Up (Gently)

Bone fractures are no joke, but the right care can make the healing process smoother and safer. From kids with greenstick breaks to athletes with spiral twists, orthopaedic clinics are equipped to treat the whole range. With options for both surgical and non-surgical care, clinics offering orthopaedic surgery in Singapore cater to all levels of injury.

Contact Auspicium Orthopaedic Centre to schedule a consultation with a bone specialist in Singapore and get back on your feet the right way.