A shinbone fracture is a break in the tibia (shinbone). The lower leg has two bones that connect the knee to the ankle: the tibia and the fibula. The tibia is the larger of the two bones and runs on the inside of the lower leg. The fibula is much smaller and runs along the outside of the lower leg.
A shinbone fracture is caused by trauma to the shinbone. Trauma includes:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease, condition, or injury.
Symptoms include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms, physical activity, and how the injury occurred, and will examine the injured area.
Tests may include:
Treatment will depend on the severity of the injury. Treatment involves:
Devices that may be used to hold the bone in place while it heals include:
The doctor may prescribe pain medication depending on the level of pain. Your doctor will order more x-rays while the bone heals to ensure that the bones have not shifted position.
When your doctor decides you are ready, start range-of-motion and strengthening exercises. You may be referred to a physical therapist to assist you with these exercises. Do not return to sports until your leg is fully healed and leg muscle strength is back to normal.
A shinbone fracture can take many weeks to heal, but more severe or open fractures may take even several months.
If you are diagnosed with a shinbone fracture, follow your doctor's instructions .
To help prevent shinbone fractures:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://www.aaos.org
American Physical Therapy Association
http://www.orthopt.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org/
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org/
References:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://www.aaos.org .
Giannoudis PV. Papakostidis C. Roberts C. A review of the management of open fractures of the tibia and femur. J Bone & Joint Surg (British Vol). 2006;88:281-289.
Steele M. Tibia and fibula fractures. eMedicine website. Accessed June 4, 2001.
Last reviewed November 2008 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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