Fractures Specialist

Michael P. Leathers, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon located in Midtown, Sacramento, CA

If you’ve sustained a fracture, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately to prevent long-term damage. Michael P. Leathers, MD is an experienced orthopedic surgeon in Midtown Sacramento, California, specializing in treating fractures, whether they’re from degenerative conditions such as osteoporosis or acute injuries. To learn more about fracture diagnosis and treatment, call Michael P. Leathers, MD or schedule an appointment online.

916-252-9701

Fractures Q & A

What is a fracture?

A fracture occurs when your bone breaks. Fractures can vary in severity from thin, hairline cracks to complete breaks in your bone. When your bone breaks, it can split lengthwise, crosswise, or in multiple pieces.

Common areas of the body that can be fractured include the:

Ankle
Wrist
Forearm
Shoulder

In some cases, a fractured bone can break through your skin.

What are the symptoms of a fracture?

One of the most noticeable signs of a fracture is intense pain upon injury. Additional symptoms often include:

Dizziness or chills
Visible deformity in the area
Redness, swelling, or bruising
Pain that increases with movement or touch

You might also hear a snapping sound while sustaining your fracture.

What causes a fracture?

Fractures can occur for several reasons, including traumatic events like falls, car accidents, or sports injuries. They can also be due to degenerating bone conditions such as osteoporosis or repetitive motions that cause overuse.

Several factors increase your risk of fracture, including:

Smoking
A sedentary lifestyle
Taking corticosteroids
Excessive alcohol consumption
Having endocrine or intestinal disorders

As your bones grow weaker with age, your chance of fractures also increases.

How is a fracture diagnosed and treated?

To diagnose a bone fracture, Dr. Leathers examines your injury and discusses your symptoms. Dr. Leathers typically confirms fractures with X-rays to help identify break locations and type.

Treating fractures usually involves realigning your broken bones and keeping them stabilized until they’ve healed. Dr. Leathers will either use a cast or splints to stabilize your fracture. During the healing process, your bones fuse together as new bone regenerates.

For complex fractures, Dr. Leathers may perform surgery to correct your broken bones. During this treatment, Dr. Leathers repositions your bones and stabilizes the damaged area with screws, metal plates, or rods, either internally or externally.

In addition to stabilizing your bones so they can heal, Dr. Leathers also prescribes medication to manage your pain and fight infection, as well as physical therapy to help you regain function and movement after you recover.

If you think you’ve sustained a bone fracture, call Michael P. Leathers, MD or schedule an appointment online today.

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