What are the treatment options for an open (compound) fracture?

So that the healing bone will stay in place, your doctor may use a cast, splint, or sling on the affected part of your body. Your doctor may also tell you to take an over-the-counter drug for pain, or prescribe a stronger drug for pain if yours is severe. Exercising the affected body part will reduce stiffness, according to your doctor's instructions. Surgery is required sometimes to put in a screw, wire, plate, or other device to hold the parts of a fracture in the right position for healing.