Introduction:
Acute trauma refers to sudden and severe injuries that result from accidents or incidents such as falls, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents. As orthopedic surgeons specializing in acute trauma at Brisbane Hip N Knee, led by Dr. Sanjay Joshi, we understand the unique challenges and complexities associated with treating teenagers who have sustained acute trauma injuries. In this blog post, we'll explore common types of acute trauma seen in teenagers and discuss the importance of seeking timely orthopedic care. If your teenager has experienced acute trauma in Sunnybank, Beenleigh, or surrounding areas, book an appointment with us for expert evaluation and treatment.
Fractures:
Fractures, or broken bones, are among the most common types of acute trauma seen in teenagers. These injuries can occur as a result of falls, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents. Common types of fractures include:
Closed Fractures: Fractures where the bone breaks but does not penetrate the skin.
Open Fractures: Fractures where the broken bone pierces through the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
Stress Fractures: Hairline cracks in the bone caused by repetitive stress or overuse, often seen in athletes.
Dislocations:
Dislocations occur when the bones in a joint are forced out of their normal position. Teenagers are particularly susceptible to dislocations, especially in joints like the shoulder, knee, and elbow. Dislocations can result from falls, sports injuries, or sudden impacts. Prompt medical attention is essential to reduce the dislocated joint and prevent further damage.
Soft Tissue Injuries:
Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains, are common acute trauma injuries among teenagers. These injuries affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the joints and can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE therapy), along with physical therapy to promote healing and restore function.
Concussions:
Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury commonly seen in teenagers who participate in contact sports or activities with a high risk of falls or collisions. Symptoms of a concussion may include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and sensitivity to light or noise. It's essential to seek immediate medical attention if a teenager experiences a head injury to prevent complications and ensure proper management of the concussion.
Sprains and Strains:
Sprains and strains are injuries that affect the ligaments (sprains) and muscles or tendons (strains) surrounding a joint. These injuries can occur due to sudden twists, falls, or overexertion during sports or physical activities. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE therapy), along with anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
Lacerations and Abrasions:
Lacerations (cuts) and abrasions (scrapes) are common acute trauma injuries that can result from accidents or falls. While lacerations may require sutures or wound closure to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection, abrasions can usually be managed with cleaning and bandaging. It's essential to seek medical attention for deep or contaminated wounds to prevent complications.
Book an Appointment with Brisbane Hip N Knee:
If your teenager has experienced acute trauma in Beenleigh, or surrounding areas, don't delay seeking orthopedic care. Book an appointment with Dr. Sanjay Joshi at Brisbane Hip N Knee for expert evaluation and treatment. Our compassionate and experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized orthopedic care to help teenagers recover from acute trauma injuries and regain mobility and function.