Suffering from a fracture can be painful and disruptive to daily life. Whether caused by a sports injury, accident, or fall, broken bones require medical assessment for proper healing and to reduce the risk of complications. Our orthopaedic surgeon provides fracture care using modern diagnostic techniques and evidence-based treatment approaches.
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A fracture is a break in bone continuity, ranging from tiny cracks to complete breaks. When excessive force exceeds bone strength, fracture occurs. Fractures can occur in any bone, though wrist, ankle, and hip locations are commonly affected. Understanding fracture nature and severity helps to determine appropriate treatment and recovery timeline.
A break in the bone where the skin remains intact. The bone stays within the surrounding soft tissues.
A break where the bone pierces through the skin, creating an open wound. This type of fracture carries a higher risk of infection and usually requires urgent medical care.
Small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive stress or overuse. They often develop gradually and may cause pain that worsens with activity.
Partial fractures that occur most often in children, where the bone bends and cracks on one side without breaking completely.
A fracture in which the bone breaks into three or more pieces, often due to high-impact trauma.
Fractures that occur in bones already weakened by underlying conditions such as osteoporosis, infection, or cancer.
Fracture symptoms typically appear immediately after injury, though stress fractures may develop gradually over weeks. Symptom severity correlates with bone damage extent and surrounding tissue injury.
Our Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon can provide assessment and discuss suitable management options.
You should consider seeing a licensed healthcare professional if you suspect fracture, especially with visible deformity, severe pain, or inability to bear weight. Emergency care is crucial for open fractures, suspected spinal injuries, or fractures with compromised blood flow. Even minor injuries warrant evaluation if pain persists beyond 24-48 hours or swelling doesn’t improve with rest and ice.
A consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon typically involves a detailed examination, review of the injury mechanism, and imaging studies to determine fracture type and appropriate management options. Early assessment may help identify potential risks and support recovery planning.
X-rays remain primary diagnostic tool for most fractures, providing clear bone structure and alignment images. Our clinic uses digital X-ray technology to determine bone structure and alignment. For complex fractures or inconclusive X-rays, CT scans can offer detailed cross-sectional views of bones and surrounding structures.
MRI scanning may be recommended for suspected stress fractures, accompanying soft tissue injuries, or evaluating bone blood supply. Bone scans can detect fractures that may not be visible on standard X-rays, which can be useful for stress fractures or multiple trauma sites. Imaging results are provided according to standard clinical processes. No special preparation is typically required, though patients should remove metal objects and inform staff if pregnant.
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol) combined with protective immobilisation. Suitable for stable, non-displaced fractures, supporting natural healing while reducing risk of further injury.
Traditional plaster or fibreglass casts provide rigid support during the healing period, typically 4–8 weeks. Regular monitoring may be performed to assess progress and adjust casts as needed.
Removable splints or functional braces offer protection while allowing movement and hygiene access. Typically works well for certain fracture types and transition healing phases, providing support while permitting gradual activity return.
Local anaesthetic injections can help manage pain during initial treatment or manipulation procedures. Bone-stimulating injections may be considered in some cases, depending on fracture type and patient factors.
Non-surgical procedure for realigning displaced bones under anaesthesia or sedation. Following reduction, immobilisation may be applied using casting or external fixation.
Metal pins inserted through skin into bone connect to external frame, stabilising complex fractures. Allows wound care access in open fractures and permits alignment adjustment during healing.
Surgical placement of metal plates, screws, or rods provides stable fixation for complex fractures. Allows earlier mobilisation and necessary for fractures involving joint surfaces or multiple fragments.
Long bones stabilised with metal rods inserted through bone’s hollow centre. Provides strong support while preserving blood supply and allowing early weight-bearing in many cases.
Severe fractures involving joint surfaces, particularly elderly hip fractures, may require partial or total replacement. Modern implants provide good function and durability when repair isn’t feasible.
Complex fractures with bone loss may require grafting using patient’s bone, donor bone, or synthetic materials. Promotes healing where natural regeneration insufficient.
Structured physiotherapy restores strength, flexibility, and function following healing. Rehabilitation protocols tailored to fracture types and patient goals, ensuring safe activity return.
Our Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon will assess your specific situation and recommend suitable treatment.
Untreated fractures lead to malunion with improper bone positioning causing permanent deformity and functional limitations. Non-union develops without appropriate treatment, potentially requiring complex surgical interventions.
Chronic pain syndromes develop from untreated fractures, impacting quality of life. Surrounding soft tissues sustain permanent damage, while improperly healed fractures increase arthritis risk. Severe complications may include blood vessel or nerve injury, compartment syndrome (sometimes managed with emergency surgery), and deep vein thrombosis related to prolonged immobility.
Strong bones through adequate calcium and vitamin D intake forms fracture prevention foundation. Regular weight-bearing exercise strengthens bones and muscles, reducing fall risk. Home safety modifications, including removing trip hazards and installing grab bars, reduce fracture risk in elderly.
Proper protective equipment during sports and work prevents traumatic fractures. Regular bone density screening for at-risk individuals allows early osteoporosis intervention. Balance training and strength exercises reduce fall risk, while addressing vision problems and medication side effects protects against fractures.
Healing times can vary depending on bone location, fracture type, and individual factors. In general, simple fractures in healthy adults may take several weeks, while more complex fractures or those with reduced blood supply can take several months. Children often experience shorter healing times. An orthopaedic surgeon can monitor progress with imaging and provide guidance on recovery expectations.
Exercise recommendations depend on fracture location and healing stage. While fractured area requires protection, maintaining fitness in unaffected parts is encouraged. Your orthopaedic surgeon can guide safe activities promoting health without compromising healing. Swimming, upper body exercises for lower limb fractures, or stationary cycling for upper limb injuries may be appropriate.
Terms are medically synonymous – both refer to bone continuity disruption. Healthcare professionals use “fracture” as formal medical term, while “break” is a common patient term. Any bone injury requires proper evaluation and treatment. Severity ranges from hairline cracks to complete breaks, all classified as fractures requiring care.
Surgery depends on fracture type, location, displacement degree, and patient factors. Many fractures heal with conservative treatment like casting or bracing. Fractures involving joint surfaces, significantly displaced bones, or multiple fragments often require surgical stabilisation. Your orthopaedic surgeon explains whether surgery offers advantages for your situation.
While natural healing cannot be rushed, several factors optimise the process. Proper nutrition with adequate protein, calcium, and vitamin D supports bone formation. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol is crucial as both may impair healing. Following treatment plans, attending physiotherapy, and gradually increasing activities promotes recovery. Some patients benefit from bone stimulation devices or supplements if appropriate.
Return timing varies based on fracture severity, location, and sport demands. Contact sports require longer recovery than non-contact activities. Most patients begin modified activities once healing confirmed, usually after 6-12 weeks. Full competitive return may take 3-6 months with gradual rehabilitation progression. Your orthopaedic surgeon creates personalised return programmes based on healing progress and functional assessments.
Fractures respond well to appropriate medical treatment when addressed promptly. Understanding fracture type and following comprehensive treatment ensures optimal healing and reduces complications. Our Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon combines modern diagnostic capabilities with evidence-based treatments for personalised fracture care. From initial assessment through rehabilitation, we support recovery to restore improve function and guide you to desired activities safely.
Living with a fracture is challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon provides assessment and management of fractures using current evidence-based approaches.
A senior consultant orthopaedic surgeon with dual specialisations in Foot & Ankle Surgery and Paediatric Orthopaedics. Backed by his extensive years of training and experience, Dr Chua brings the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure a smooth recovery journey.
Rooted firmly by two fundamental philosophies: “When one’s feet hurt, one hurts all over” and “Children are not little adults”, Dr Chua’s approach to patient care reflects his compassionate care for adults and children.
His active participation in the medical community extends to mentoring, research supervision, and contributions to key professional forums and symposiums, both locally and internationally.
Our friendly clinical staff will assist you with your registration, ensuring an efficient and hassle-free process for you.
During your consultation, we will evaluate your medical history and the pain you are experiencing. You may also ask questions about your condition.
We will likely perform some form of diagnostic imaging (e.g. X-Rays, MRI) to assess your condition accurately.
After imaging, we will review the results of your scans thoroughly, and advise an individualised treatment plan for you.
As you go through your treatment plan, we will follow up with you every step of the way, ensuring that you receive the dedicated care you deserve.
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Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
38 Irrawaddy Road, #05-36, Singapore 329563
Parkway East Medical Centre
319 Joo Chiat Place, #03-06, Singapore 427989