Fractures: Causes, Symptoms, and Medical Treatment at Thrive Ortho & Spine in Atlanta

A bone fracture can happen suddenly—whether from a fall, sports injury, or accident—but expert orthopedic care ensures the best recovery possible. At Thrive Ortho & Spine in Atlanta, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of fractures so patients can safely return to normal activity as soon as possible.

What Is a Fracture?

A fracture occurs when a bone breaks or cracks due to trauma, overuse, or weakened bone structure. Fractures vary in severity, from small hairline cracks to complex breaks that displace bone fragments. Common types include:

• Stress fractures (tiny cracks from repetitive strain)
• Simple fractures (clean breaks that remain aligned)
• Compound fractures (bones that break through the skin)
• Comminuted fractures (bones that shatter into multiple pieces)
• Greenstick fractures (partial fractures more common in children)

Recognizing the type of fracture is key to selecting the right treatment approach.

Common Causes of Bone Fractures

At Thrive Ortho & Spine, we often see fractures resulting from:

• Sports injuries or high-impact collisions
• Motor vehicle or workplace accidents
• Slips, trips, and falls
• Osteoporosis and other conditions that weaken bone density

Understanding how the injury occurred helps guide imaging, treatment planning, and rehabilitation.

Symptoms of a Fracture

Fractures typically cause immediate pain and swelling, but symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity. Watch for:

• Intense pain that worsens with movement
• Swelling, bruising, or deformity around the injury
• Difficulty bearing weight or moving the affected limb
• Visible bone displacement or protrusion in severe cases

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek prompt orthopedic evaluation.

Diagnosis at Thrive Ortho & Spine

Our Atlanta orthopedic specialists use advanced imaging tools—including digital X-rays and MRI scans—to accurately identify fractures and surrounding tissue damage. A precise diagnosis allows our physicians to determine whether non-surgical or surgical management is the best course of action.

Treatment of Fractures

Treatment depends on fracture type, location, and patient health. At Thrive Ortho & Spine, options include:

• Immobilization: Casting, bracing, or splinting to stabilize the bone as it heals.
• Closed reduction: Realigning the bone without surgery under local or general anesthesia.
• Surgical fixation: Using plates, rods, or screws for complex fractures requiring internal stabilization.
• Physical therapy: Rehabilitative exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and full motion after immobilization or surgery.

Our orthopedic surgeons emphasize individualized care to ensure every fracture heals properly and to minimize long-term complications.

Recovery and Follow-Up Care

Healing times vary but typically range from several weeks to a few months, depending on the fracture’s complexity and the patient’s age, health, and bone strength. Our physicians monitor recovery through follow-up imaging and provide customized therapy recommendations to restore mobility and prevent reinjury.

Why Choose Thrive Ortho & Spine

Thrive Ortho & Spine is Atlanta’s trusted destination for orthopedic injury care. Our specialists combine advanced diagnostic technology, minimally invasive surgical options, and compassionate patient education to deliver complete, results-focused fracture treatment.

If you’ve recently suffered a broken bone or are experiencing persistent pain after an injury, contact Thrive Ortho & Spine today to schedule an evaluation and begin your recovery journey.

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