Leg Fracture

GENERAL INFORMATION:

What is it? A leg fracture is a break in one or more of the bones in your leg. How long it will take your leg to heal is different for every person. It may take weeks or months. An x-ray will show when the broken bone(s) is healed.

Causes: A broken leg is often caused by trauma, such as a fall, an injury, or an accident.

Signs and Symptoms: Your leg may hurt, feel weak or numb, or tingle. It may be swollen or bruised. Your leg may bleed if the skin is broken. Your leg may not look normal or may even look bent. You may have a hard time moving your leg. Or, you may not be able to move it at all.

Care: Put an ice pack on your leg to lessen pain and swelling. A cast or splint may be put on your leg to keep the bones from moving. Your caregiver may give you pain medicine. You may need surgery if you have a bad fracture.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. You can then discuss treatment options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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