Often caused by falls, trauma, or injury, bone and joint injuries can sometimes be serious enough to require surgery. A broken bone can occasionally puncture your skin, causing intense pain. If you suspect that you have a broken bone, you will need medical treatment right away. In serious cases, pins, screws, and plates are placed into the body to stabilize the bone and help it heal. Joints connect our bones, and joint injuries can often occur in the elbows and knees. To reduce your risk of joint injury, stay healthy. Staying at a healthy weight and keeping your muscles strong and fit reduces the wear and tear on your joints.
Your risk for dislocations is increased if you play sports. Falling and being involved in a car accident also puts you at risk for dislocations.
Young children whose bones are still growing are least likely to suffer from dislocations. They are more likely to break a bone than to experience a dislocation.
The most common hip surgeries performed in the United States are hip fracture repair and hip replacement. Approximately 300,000 cases are performed each year for each indication.
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After surgery, you need time to heal and regain strength. Everyone returns to activities at their own pace. In general, it can take weeks to months before you are able to climb stairs normally and feel your natural walk return.