The techniques that your doctor will use for the treatment of a fracture or broken bone depends on a few different factors, such as the location of the injury, how severely the bone is broken or fractured, and if there are multiple fractures or major arteries near the fracture. As such, treatment options could include any of the following: - Casting: Also known as immobilization, a cast or splint made from fiberglass or plaster is applied to the area of the fracture to keep the bone from moving as it heals itself. Casting is used for fractures that involve displacement, shortening, or angulation of the bone. - Medication: Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medication may be used to control and relieve pain, depending on how severe the pain is. - Traction: When casting is not an option, traction therapy is typically the Plan B option. Traction therapy works by gently pulling on the fractured bone to put it back into its proper position using weights, pulleys, and ropes. This method is often used for badly broken legs in the early stages of treatment to keep the bone in the correct position. - Physical therapy: Once the fracture has healed, range-of-motion and strengthening exercises can help strengthen the muscles and improve the movement of the joints around the bone. - Rehabilitation: As your fracture heals, rehabilitation programs involve a gradual increase in exercises and activity until the bone has completely healed. - Surgery: For more severe fractures, surgery may be required. Below are the two main surgical options: - Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF): An incision is made above the fracture site, and the pieces of the broken bone are put back together using plates, rods, screws, or sutures to hold it in place as it heals. - External fixation: The broken bones are held in place through rods that are screwed into the bone and attached to a stabilizing structure external to the body. When you come to Columbia Clinic Urgent Care for fracture treatment, one of our board-certified physicians will examine and assess the fracture severity to determine which treatment route is required. If surgery is needed, we will likely refer you to a specialist for immediate treatment.