Anupam Kher sustains hairline fracture on sets of Vijay 69; know about treatment, recovery

 

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What is a hairline fracture?

A hairline fracture, also known as a stress fracture, is a small crack in a bone that often develops due to repetitive stress or overuse.

“Hairline fractures typically occur gradually over time, as opposed to a sudden injury. They can be caused by repeated stress on a bone, such as from running or jumping on hard surfaces, or from activities that involve twisting or bending, such as gymnastics or dance,” said Dr Ankit Batra, orthopaedic surgeon, Sharda Hospital.

Stressing that uni-cortical break in bone causes such fractures, Dr Udit Kapoor, consultant, Metro Hospital, Faridabad explained that bones have two cortexes (margins) and when there is a break in one of the cortex, it is termed as a hairline fracture.

Causes

Dr Kapoor said that the causes can range from trivial (mild) trauma and osteoporotic bone. “Sometimes it is seen in carcinoma patients, and mostly occurs in children,” he told indianexpress.com.

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. The pain may get worse with activity and improve with rest, Dr Batra said.

Hairline fractures can occur anywhere in the joints (representative) (Source: Pexels)

Treatment

Treatment typically involves rest and immobilisation of the affected area to allow the bone to heal. “This may involve using crutches to avoid putting weight on the affected leg or foot, or wearing a cast or brace,” said Batra.

Recovery

The time it takes for a hairline fracture to heal depends on the severity of the injury and the location of the fracture. “In general, mild hairline fractures may heal within a few weeks, while more severe fractures may take several months to heal,” Dr Batra elucidated.

Dr Kapoor said that it usually takes “6-8 weeks to remodel the bone”, or for the formation of a callus or a new bone.

Are there ways to prevent such fractures?

According to Dr Batra, the prevention of hairline fractures involves maintaining proper bone health through a healthy diet and regular exercise, using proper equipment and technique during sports or other physical activities, and avoiding overuse or repetitive stress on bones. “If you are at risk for hairline fractures, your doctor may recommend supplements such as calcium and vitamin D to support bone health,” said Dr Batra.

Dr Kapoor urged that one should get regular screenings done “to be sure that there is no displaced fragment”.

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