A broken arm is a fracture in any of the bones of the arm, including the humerus in the upper arm, and the radius and ulna in the forearm. Recognizing the signs of this injury quickly is important for proper medical attention and to prevent further complications.
Key Indicators of a Broken Arm
Severe pain is a primary sign of a broken arm, often intensifying with movement or pressure. This discomfort can be sharp and persistent, making even slight adjustments difficult. Swelling around the injury site is also common, as fluids accumulate in the damaged tissues.
Bruising may also develop as discoloration on the skin due to internal bleeding. A visible deformity, such as the arm appearing at an unusual angle or a bone fragment protruding through the skin, indicates a severe fracture and requires immediate attention.
Inability to move the arm, hand, or rotate the forearm is common, with attempts often worsening pain. Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers can also occur, indicating nerve compression or damage.
A distinct grinding or popping sensation might be felt or heard at the moment of injury, signifying bones moving against each other. Not all signs may be present, but any combination warrants medical evaluation.
Immediate Actions to Take
If a broken arm is suspected, immobilize the limb to prevent further damage. Create a makeshift sling using a scarf or clothing to support the arm and minimize movement at the suspected fracture site.
Apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the swollen area to reduce pain and swelling. Do not place ice directly on the skin to avoid frostbite. Elevating the arm above heart level, if possible, can also help decrease swelling.
Seek urgent medical attention immediately if:
Pain is severe.
There is an obvious deformity.
An open wound is present near the suspected break.
A bone is protruding through the skin.
There is heavy bleeding.
The injured person loses consciousness or sustains a head injury.
Avoid trying to straighten the arm or moving it unnecessarily, as this can worsen the injury.
What Happens During Diagnosis
Upon arrival at a medical facility, a healthcare professional will conduct a physical examination of the arm. This includes assessing swelling, bruising, deformities, range of motion, and sensation. The medical team will also ask detailed questions about how the injury occurred.
The primary diagnostic tool for a broken arm is an X-ray. This imaging technique provides clear images of the bones, identifying the fracture’s location and type. Multiple X-ray views are taken from different angles.
In complex cases, additional imaging tests might be used. These can include a CT (computed tomography) scan for detailed cross-sectional images, or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan for soft tissue damage. However, X-rays remain the most common and initial diagnostic method.
Understanding Different Arm Injuries
Distinguishing a broken arm from other common injuries like a sprain or dislocation involves observing symptom differences. A sprain involves ligament damage and presents with less severe pain and swelling than a fracture. While movement may be painful, some range of motion often remains.
A dislocation occurs when joint bones are forced out of alignment, causing visible deformity and immobility. This injury causes immediate, intense pain and a noticeable change in the joint’s appearance, unlike a sprain’s generalized swelling. Only a medical professional can provide a diagnosis and recommend treatment.