Dr. Nguyen Van On, a specialist in Orthopedic Trauma at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, states that sprains and fractures are common but distinct injuries.

A sprain is the stretching or tearing of ligaments (fibrous tissues connecting bones to bones) due to a sudden force. This injury is common in sports and exercise, often occurring when individuals make quick, sudden movements or experience strong impacts. Areas prone to sprains include the ankle, wrist, and knee.

Conversely, a fracture is a crack or break in any bone or joint, caused by a strong impact or certain medical conditions such as osteoporosis, bone tuberculosis, or osteomyelitis. Fractures are typically categorized into two types: closed fractures, where the skin and surrounding soft tissues remain intact and the bone is not exposed; and open fractures, where the broken bone pierces the skin, creating an open wound and bleeding. Generally, fractures are more severe than sprains.

These injuries share some similar symptoms, which can lead to confusion and incorrect care, potentially worsening the condition.

Dr. On examines a patient's shoulder joint after an injury. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. On suggests several signs to help distinguish between a sprain and a fracture:

For a sprain: Individuals may feel the affected joint is loose or weak, with swelling and bruising spreading around the injured area. They can bear some body weight and move the joint, but with pain and limited range of motion. About one day after the injury, the patient may experience joint stiffness, requiring gentle movement to regain mobility.

For a fracture: A cracking sound might be heard at the time of injury. The limb may appear bent, twisted, or abnormally shaped. The fracture site will be painful, swollen, bruised, and warm. The injured limb cannot bear weight, and movement is impossible. Bleeding and protruding bone may occur in the case of an open fracture. In more severe instances, the patient might feel dizzy, nauseous, or faint.

Proper first aid immediately after an injury can alleviate discomfort and limit the extent of damage. Patients should keep the injured bone and joint immobilized, avoiding movement or palpation. For an open fracture, loosen clothing around the injury and disinfect the wound with saline solution. Gently apply a cold compress around the injury using a specialized ice pack or ice wrapped in a soft cloth to reduce swelling and pain. Do not attempt to reset the bone, apply hot oils, or massage with liniments.

Use a medical splint, wooden splint, or aluminum splint to immobilize the area from the joint above to the joint below the fracture. For rib fractures, use a specialized elastic bandage wrapped around the chest to stabilize the bones. Ensure the bandage is not too tight to prevent bruising or blood vessel obstruction. Elevate the injured area when lying or sitting to improve blood circulation between the heart and the wound, which helps reduce swelling.

After administering first aid, the patient should be taken to the hospital as soon as possible for timely medical intervention, especially in cases of open fractures. This type of injury requires urgent care to prevent broken bone fragments from puncturing soft tissues and internal organs. While sprains typically heal after a few weeks of treatment, fractures can require several months for recovery.

Phi Hong