A broken arm, or fractured arm, occurs when one of the three bones in the arm—the humerus in the upper arm, or the radius and ulna in the forearm—cracks or breaks. This injury is common across all age groups, frequently resulting from falls, sports incidents, or direct trauma. A broken arm requires prompt medical attention to heal properly and prevent complications.
Why Moving a Broken Arm is Harmful
Attempting to move a suspected broken arm is strongly discouraged due to several potential dangers. Movement can significantly increase pain and discomfort, worsening the immediate experience of the injury. Moving the arm may cause further displacement of bone fragments, which can complicate the healing process and potentially necessitate more invasive treatments like surgery.
Beyond the bone itself, moving a broken arm risks damage to surrounding soft tissues, including muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. Sharp bone edges can lacerate these structures, leading to issues like numbness, tingling, or even loss of function if nerves are compromised, or bleeding if blood vessels are torn. There is also a risk of a closed fracture, where the skin remains intact, becoming an open (or compound) fracture if the bone fragments pierce through the skin. This conversion introduces a heightened risk of infection and can prolong recovery time, potentially leading to permanent damage or long-term complications.
Identifying a Broken Arm
Recognizing the signs of a broken arm can help individuals seek timely medical care. Severe pain is a primary indicator, often intensifying with any attempt to move the arm. Swelling and bruising around the injured area typically appear soon after the trauma, caused by fluid and blood leaking into surrounding tissues.
A noticeable deformity, such as an unusual bend, crooked appearance, or the arm appearing shorter than the uninjured limb, is a strong sign of a fracture. Some individuals might hear or feel a grinding or popping sensation (crepitus) at the time of injury or upon movement, indicating bone fragments rubbing against each other. Additionally, nerve involvement can manifest as numbness or tingling in the arm, hand, or fingers. In severe instances, bone might be visibly protruding through the skin, indicating an open fracture. While these signs suggest a broken arm, only a medical professional can confirm a fracture through examination and imaging tests like X-rays.
Immediate Steps After a Suspected Break
If a broken arm is suspected, the immediate priority is to prevent further injury and seek professional medical help. It is crucial to avoid moving the injured arm.
Gently immobilize the arm in the position it was found. A makeshift sling can provide support; a shirt, towel, or scarf can be used to support the elbow and wrist, holding the arm against the body. If a temporary splint is necessary, use rigid materials like rolled-up newspapers or sturdy cardboard, extending beyond the injury site to immobilize the joints above and below the suspected break. Secure the splint with tape or cloth without overtightening, ensuring it does not cut off circulation.
Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce swelling and pain. Place a barrier, such as a thin cloth, between the ice pack and the skin to prevent frostbite, and apply for 10-20 minutes at a time, allowing the skin to warm between applications. Elevating the arm above heart level, if possible, also aids in minimizing swelling.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if appropriate, but avoid food or drink in case surgery is required. Seek immediate medical attention by going to an emergency room or urgent care, particularly if there is severe pain, deformity, heavy bleeding, or a bone protruding from the skin.