Exceptional Fracture in Utah
Bones throughout the body bear significant stress and pressure during daily activities, making them susceptible to fractures from accidents, overuse, or traumatic events such as car accidents or sports injuries. Bone fractures can range from severe breaks to hairline fractures, sprains, and strains. Regardless of the severity, fractures are painful and require proper treatment. Leaving an injury untreated can lead to complications such as arthritis, improper healing, or nerve damage.
Common Fractures and Related Injuries
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a regular gym-goer, or more of a homebody, many injuries occur when there is a sudden change in activity level. Increasing the duration, intensity, or frequency of activity can strain the body and lead to injury. For example, your body needs time to adjust to new workout routines or increased movement, such as long walks during a vacation. Sudden changes in activity can result in common injuries, including strains, sprains, and overuse injuries.
Our Treatment Approach to Injuries & Fractures
Treatment for fractures in the body depends on the severity and location of the injury. Severe fractures may require surgery to ensure proper healing, and in some cases, screws or plates may be used to stabilize the bone. Less severe fractures or sprains may be treated with immobilization, such as a brace or cast, to support the healing process.
If you are unable to bear weight on the affected area or continue to experience pain and swelling, it’s time to seek medical care. During your appointment, we will review your health history, symptoms, and activity level. A thorough exam and advanced imaging may be performed to identify the cause of your pain and provide a comprehensive diagnosis. After discussing your treatment options, we’ll develop a plan that works best for you, starting your recovery journey.
At Rocky Mountain, we empower you to take control of your health. While injuries are sometimes unavoidable, with the right treatment and guidance, recovery is possible. We’ll equip you with the knowledge and tools to heal and minimize the risk of future injuries
Signs You May Have a Fracture
It isn’t always obvious whether an injury has broken a bone. Have it evaluated if you experience:
- Inability to bear weight on the foot or ankle
- Immediate swelling, bruising, or visible deformity
- Tenderness directly over a bone
- Pain that intensifies with pressure or movement
- Numbness, or a pinpoint ache that worsens with activity (a possible stress fracture)
Sprain vs. Fracture: How to Tell the Difference
Sprains and fractures both cause pain and swelling, which is why they’re easy to confuse. Tenderness directly over bone, an inability to take more than a few steps, and any visible deformity point toward a fracture, while sprains tend to produce more diffuse tenderness over the ligaments. The only way to know for certain is imaging. So when in doubt, get it checked. Treating a fracture as a simple sprain can lead to improper healing.
What to Do While You Wait for Care
Until you can be seen, follow the RICE approach: rest the injury, ice for 15–20 minutes at a time, compress with an elastic wrap, and elevate the foot above heart level. Avoid putting weight on the injury and don’t push through the pain. Prompt treatment lowers the risk of long-term complications such as malunion, chronic instability, and arthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fractures
How long does a foot or ankle fracture take to heal?
Many fractures heal in roughly six to eight weeks, though the exact timeline depends on the bone involved, the severity, and your overall health.
Can I walk on a fractured foot?
It’s risky. Walking on a fracture can worsen the break and delay healing. Avoid weight-bearing and get evaluated before returning to activity.
Do all fractures need surgery?
No. Many are treated with immobilization in a cast or boot. Surgery with screws or plates is reserved for displaced or unstable fractures that won’t heal properly on their own.
Don’t let foot or ankle pain keep you from the things you love. Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle has board-certified podiatrists in Murray, Draper, and Tooele serving patients across the Salt Lake City area. Call 801-261-1391 or request an appointment online. We get you in quickly, and appointments are always available.
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