Fractures are a serious concern when it comes to physical injury. A fracture is a broken bone caused by trauma, falls, and accidents. They can occur from high-impact events such as falls from high places or vehicular accidents.
The weight of fracture can be heavy as it can lead to long-term or permanent disability if not treated properly. Therefore, it is essential to know how to protect yourself from such accidents. In this article, we’ll discuss the measures that can be taken to ensure safety and prevent fractures.
Prevention of Fractures
Prevention is the best way to protect oneself from fractures. Here are some ways to achieve this:.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can help maintain strong bones and improve balance and stability. This can reduce the risk of falls, which can lead to fractures.
Strength training exercises like weight-bearing exercises are particularly effective in preventing bone loss. Meanwhile, balance exercises are useful in improving balance and stability. Consult a fitness trainer to develop an exercise routine that works for you.
Ensure Good Nutrition
Nutrition is an integral part of bone health. Therefore, it is necessary to consume foods that contain vitamins and minerals that promote bone health. Calcium and vitamin D applications are two of the most important components for bone health.
Milk, yogurt, and cheese are excellent calcium sources, while the sun is an adequate source of vitamin D. While nutritional supplements are available, it is recommended to obtain these vitamins and minerals naturally through food.
Avoid High-Risk Activities
Avoiding high-risk activities that can lead to falls is a crucial way to prevent fractures. This includes sports that involve high-impact events, such as jumping and running, without proper equipment and training.
Avoid walking on wet surfaces and wearing shoes with good traction can also minimize the risk of falls.
Make Home a Safe Place
Most fractures happen at home, so it is essential to make our home safe by keeping stairs, floors, and pathways clear of objects that can cause slips and falls. Use non-slip mats in bathrooms and ensure that lighting in your house is adequate.
Installing grab bars in bathrooms, showers, and near toilet areas is a good safety measure as well. Make sure your home is safe from hazards that can cause fractures.
What to do if You Have a Fracture?
If you experience an injury that results in a fracture, it is essential to take prompt action. Here are some things to keep in mind:.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If you suspect that you have a fracture, seek medical attention immediately. Delaying a medical diagnosis can lead to further damage or complications, such as infections. Fractures typically result in intense pain and swelling.
If you believe you have broken a bone, stop any activity that may further aggravate your injury before seeking medical assistance.
Protect the Injury Site
After obtaining medical attention, it is essential to protect the injury site. Depending on the nature of the fracture, this may involve immobilizing the affected limb with a splint or cast.
Pain medication may also be prescribed to minimize the discomfort associated with fractures.
Follow Doctor’s Instructions
After a fracture, it is crucial to follow the doctor’s instructions. This may involve covering the injury site while showering, following a diet that promotes healing, and avoiding activities that can aggravate the injury.
These measures will help promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Conclusion
Fractures can occur in our daily lives due to accidents or trauma. However, by following preventive measures, such as exercise, good nutrition, and creating safe spaces at home, we can reduce the risk of fractures.
If we do experience a fracture, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately, protect the injury site, and follow the doctor’s instructions for a healthy recovery. It’s essential to keep ourselves informed about the weight of fractures and how to protect ourselves.