Fracture & Dislocations in Leesburg, VA

The honest answer is, unless the bone is sticking out, or the limb is at a very peculiar angle, the only way to know for sure that a bone is broken is to have an X-ray. A fracture is simply another word for a broken bone.

Other Possible Signs

• Pain – it hurts.
• Loss of power – it can be hard to move a broken limb.
• Unnatural movement – the limb may be at an odd angle and have a wider range of movement than it should have.
• Swelling, bruising or a wound around the fracture site.
• Deformity – limbs may be shortened or the broken area could have lumps and bumps or stepping (if the spine is injured it will be uneven if you feel down their back gently).
• Irregularity – lumps, bumps, depressions, or stretched skin.
• Crepitus – the grinding sound when the end of bones rub against each other.
• Tenderness – pain at the site of injury.

‍Important Things to Note on Fractures

Broken bones on their own very rarely cause fatalities. However, if there is severe bleeding associated with the injury (either internal or external bleeding) this can cause the animal to go into shock, which is life-threatening. Do not attempt to reposition the injured limb. Keep your pet warm and dry and be aware that pain and stress will adversely affect their condition. If you are at all worried about them, phone your vet.

Dislocation

A dislocation occurs when the bone is pulled out of position at a joint and it can be accompanied by other tissue damage. Always go to a vet to re-place a dislocated joint. Never try and put it back yourself as you are likely to cause further damage and trap nerves or blood vessels.

Signs and Symptoms

• Difficulty moving the joint, pain and stiffness
• Swelling and bruising around the joint
• They are likely to be asymmetrical, with one joint looking deformed and out of place
• There could be shortening, bending or twisting of the joint

Treatment

• Keep everyone safe – muzzle your dog if there is a risk of being bitten
• Support the injury to avoid unnecessary and painful movement
• Never try and reposition the limb yourself
• Look out for signs of shock
• Phone the vet and transport them carefully to your local veterinary clinic
• Do not give them anything to eat or drink as they may need a general anaesthetics