Broken bones, or fractures, are common injuries. Many people are unsure about the role of compression in managing these injuries. Understanding how compression applies to broken bones requires distinguishing between its different types and intended purposes, which is important for appropriate initial care and proper healing.
Understanding Compression in Injury Care
Compression in a medical context involves applying external pressure to an injured area. This pressure aims to reduce swelling, minimize internal bleeding, and provide support to damaged tissues. For soft tissue injuries like sprains, strains, and contusions, compression is a well-established component of the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation). Applying a compression bandage, such as an elastic wrap, helps control the inflammatory response by limiting fluid accumulation.
For instance, wrapping a sprained ankle with an elastic bandage can provide gentle pressure to keep swelling under control and offer some support to the joint. This type of compression is typically applied with moderate tension, ensuring it is firm enough to provide benefit but not so tight that it restricts blood flow. The goal is to support the body’s natural healing processes for muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Compression and Broken Bones: The Nuances
Directly applying compression to a broken bone differs significantly from its use in soft tissue injuries. While temporary, light compression might be considered immediately after a suspected fracture, its role is limited to managing swelling. A loose bandage can offer initial support and help reduce fluid buildup before professional medical attention. However, this is not a fracture treatment, but a temporary measure for symptom control.
Improper or overly tight compression on a suspected fracture can lead to serious complications. Excessive pressure can restrict blood flow to the injured limb, potentially causing tissue damage due to lack of oxygen and nutrients. This can also compress nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, or increased pain below the compression point. Furthermore, attempting to tightly compress or “set” a broken bone without proper medical knowledge can worsen the injury, displace bone fragments, or cause additional soft tissue damage.
The definitive treatment for most broken bones involves controlled immobilization using medical devices like casts, splints, or braces. Healthcare professionals apply these devices to stabilize bone fragments and hold them in proper alignment, allowing the bone to heal. Unlike general compression bandages, casts and splints provide rigid, precise support that prevents movement at the fracture site. Splints are often used initially to accommodate swelling, while casts provide more complete circumferential immobilization once swelling subsides. This professional immobilization is distinct from general compression and crucial for promoting bone healing and preventing further injury.
Immediate Steps for Suspected Fractures
When a broken bone is suspected, seek immediate professional medical attention. Call emergency services or transport the individual to a hospital. While waiting for medical help, focus on initial care that prioritizes safety and prevents further harm.
Keep the injured limb as still as possible to avoid unnecessary movement of bone fragments. Do not attempt to straighten or realign the bone, as this can cause additional pain and damage. If there is an open wound, cover it with a clean cloth or sterile dressing, applying gentle pressure around the wound to control bleeding, but not directly over a protruding bone. Elevating the injured area, if possible and not causing more pain, can help reduce swelling.
Avoid applying tight bandages or any rigid compression without professional guidance. While a loose bandage might hold a cold pack in place or provide minimal support, ensure it does not restrict circulation. Signs that a bandage is too tight include increased pain, numbness, tingling, or a change in skin color below the bandage. Monitor the injured area for these signs.