Patients often assume a broken bone means surgery. Ideally, we want to avoid surgery if possible.

The human body is amazing at knitting bone back together. Our job is simply to hold it steady while nature does the work.

---

When Is Surgery Not Needed?

We can treat fractures conservatively if:

1. Non-Displaced: The bone is broken but hasn't moved out of alignment.
2. Stable: The fracture won't slip further.
3. Extra-Articular: The break doesn't go into a joint surface.

---

The Tools of the Trade

1. Plaster / Fiberglass Casts

The classic hard shell. It immobilizes the joint above and below the break to prevent any movement.

• Pros: Rigid protection.
• Cons: Can get itchy/stiff. Muscle wasting occurs.

2. Functional Braces

Removable velcro boots or splints.

• Pros: Can be removed for hygiene (sometimes). Allows some movement to prevent stiffness.

---

The Healing Timeline

• Weeks 1-2: Inflammation (Swelling). The "glue" (callus) starts to form.
• Weeks 3-6: Soft Callus turns to Hard Callus. The bone becomes sticky and stable.
• Weeks 6-12: Remodeling. The bone hardens fully.

---

Takeaway

"Conservative" doesn't mean "inferior." For many fractures, a cast gives the exact same long-term result as surgery, without the risks of anesthesia or infection.

Trust the X-ray. If Dr. Kale says it will heal in a cast, trust the process.