Tibial fracture

Tibial Fracture

A tibial fracture is a break or crack in the tibia, the larger of the two bones in the lower leg. This type of fracture is common in sports injuries, car accidents, and falls. The tibia, also known as the shinbone, is the weight-bearing bone of the leg and is therefore more likely to be fractured than the smaller fibula.

Types of Tibial Fractures

There are several types of tibial fractures, including:

• Transverse fracture: This type of fracture occurs when the bone is broken in a straight line across the tibia.
• Oblique fracture: An oblique fracture is angled and typically occurs due to a twisting injury.
• Spiral fracture: This type of fracture spirals around the tibia, often caused by a twisting force.
• Comminuted fracture: In a comminuted fracture, the bone is shattered into three or more pieces.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a tibial fracture can vary depending on the severity and type of fracture, but may include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Deformity of the leg
• Inability to walk or bear weight on the leg
• Bruising

Diagnosis

A tibial fracture is typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. The doctor will look for signs of injury, such as swelling, deformity, or bruising, and may also check for nerve damage or blood flow issues.

Treatment

Treatment for a tibial fracture depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Non-surgical treatments may include casting or splinting to hold the bone in place while it heals. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to realign the bone and hold it in place with hardware such as screws, plates, or rods.

Recovery

Recovery from a tibial fracture can take several months and involves physical therapy to restore strength and mobility to the leg. Pain management is also an important part of recovery.

See Also

• Bone fracture
• Orthopedic surgery
• Physical therapy