What is a common treatment for a simple fracture?

A simple fracture, which is typically a clean break in the bone without any significant displacement or damage to surrounding tissues, is best treated with immobilization. The primary goal of treatment is to allow the bone to heal properly in the correct alignment. Immobilization, often achieved through the use of a cast or splint, provides stability to the fractured area, minimizes movement, and protects the fracture site from further injury.

By keeping the bone immobilized, healing can occur more effectively, as it allows the body to lay down new bone material at the fracture site without interference. This approach is fundamental in treating simple fractures and is a standard practice in orthopedic medicine.

While physical therapy may be utilized after the fracture has healed to restore strength and mobility, and pain medication might be administered to manage discomfort, these treatments are not the primary interventions for a simple fracture. Surgery is generally reserved for more complicated fractures where realignment of the bone cannot be achieved through immobilization alone or when there are associated injuries to surrounding structures. Thus, immobilization with a cast or splint is the definitive treatment for a simple fracture.