Lecture Notes: Broken Arm - Symptoms and Causes

Overview of Arm Anatomy

• The arm consists of three main bones:
  • Humerus (upper arm bone)
  • Ulna (forearm bone)
  • Radius (forearm bone)
• A "broken arm" refers to a fracture in any of these bones.

Causes of a Broken Arm

• Falls: Most common cause, usually from falling onto an outstretched hand.
• Sports Injuries: Direct blows or incidents during activities like football or gymnastics.
• Significant Trauma: Includes car or bike accidents.
• Child Abuse: In children, broken arms can sometimes indicate abuse.

Symptoms of a Broken Arm

• Immediate severe pain, especially with movement.
• Swelling and bruising.
• Deformity, such as a bent arm.
• Inability to rotate the arm.
• A snap or cracking sound at the time of injury.

When to See a Doctor

• Significant pain preventing normal use of the arm.
• Immediate medical attention advised, particularly for children.

Risk Factors for a Broken Arm

• Certain Sports: Activities with physical contact or falling risk (e.g., skiing, skateboarding).
• Bone Abnormalities: Conditions like osteoporosis or bone tumors that weaken bones, leading to pathological fractures.

Complications of Arm Fractures

• Uneven Growth: Issues in children's bone growth if the fracture affects growth plates.
• Osteoarthritis: Potential development in joints with fracture extension.
• Stiffness: Limited motion post-immobilization.
• Bone Infection: Germ exposure from protruding bone.
• Nerve/Blood Vessel Injury: Damage from fractured bone ends.
• Compartment Syndrome: Swelling that cuts off blood supply (medical emergency).

Prevention Tips

• Nutrition: Maintain a calcium and vitamin D-rich diet.
• Exercise: Engage in weight-bearing activities to strengthen bones.
• Fall Prevention: Avoid home hazards, use proper lighting, and wear sensible shoes.
• Protective Gear: Use wrist guards in high-risk activities.
• Avoid Smoking: Reduces bone mass and hampers healing.

Note: Early treatment of fractures is crucial for a good prognosis. The information is provided by Mayo Clinic Staff as of August 11, 2022.