How to Care for Your Compound Foot Fracture Before Your Exam

Breaking a bone in your foot is stressful, especially if it is a compound fracture. Compound fractures occur when your broken bone breaks through your skin, protruding visibly.

They are painful and can be scary. But, with the correct care and treatment, you can recover fully. Our team at Twin Palm Orthopedics of Ocala, Florida, provides fracture repair surgery to restore your foot shape and reduce your risk of complications while you heal under the leadership of Dr. Derek Farr and Dr. Nirav Gupta.

While you’re making your way to our offices for treatment, how should you take care of the injured foot? Here’s what you need to know about first aid and temporary care for your compound foot fracture while you’re waiting for professional medical evaluation and treatment.

What to do after a compound fracture

You’re most likely to experience a compound fracture as a result of strong force or trauma. For example, you may become injured in a car crash or break a bone due to a significant fall. Repetitive stress can also cause the bones in your feet to weaken and fracture over time.

With a compound fracture, you’ll notice broken bone protruding through your skin and feel sharp and severe pain. The injured area will be tender to the touch. Bleeding, bruising, and swelling can also appear after your injury. Additionally, nerve damage could affect your pain levels.

After you experience a compound foot fracture, seek medical treatment right away. On your way to our office, protect the injured area by covering it with a clean and damp towel. Rest the affected limb and surrounding joints as much as possible.

First aid for compound foot fractures: PRICE

The acronym PRICE explains the steps you should take for first aid after a compound fracture. Here’s what you need to know.

In addition to protection (P) and rest (R), you can use icing therapy (I) above the fracture to reduce swelling. Compression (C) is provided by a cast or other device that you’ll receive from our team. Elevation (E) reduces swelling by placing the injured area above your heart.

Once you get emergency care, pain relief options like medications, injections, or nerve blocks help you rest. You may also need antibiotic treatment or a tetanus vaccine.

Fracture repair surgery

At Twin Palm Orthopedics, we specialize in fracture repair surgery. This type of orthopedic surgery helps your foot heal. Your fracture repair surgery may involve using artificial components including rods, plates, and screws, to align and stabilize your damaged bone or bones.

We start with an initial consultation appointment where our team reviews your injury with a comprehensive exam, determining the best treatment plan to fully restore and rehabilitate your feet and get you moving again pain-free after a compound foot fracture injury. We use diagnostic tests as needed to learn more about your condition and treatment needs.

Schedule your initial consultation appointment with a provider at Twin Palm Orthopedics online or over the phone now.