Symptoms of a Broken Arm
Symptoms of a Broken Arm typically occur immediately after the injury, and they are often unmistakable. The most common symptoms of a broken arm include severe pain, swelling, bruising, visible deformity, and difficulty moving the arm. Recognising these signs early helps ensure timely medical intervention and reduces the risk of complications.
Pain is usually the first and most intense symptom. It may be localised or radiate down toward the hand, and it often worsens with movement or pressure. Many people instinctively hold their injured arm against their body or avoid using it entirely.
Swelling and bruising develop rapidly and may spread across the arm. The area might feel warm to the touch and look discoloured — often red, purple, or blue. This is the body’s inflammatory response to tissue damage, and it’s a clear sign that immediate care is needed.
Deformity is another obvious indicator. The arm may appear misshapen, bent at an odd angle, or shorter than usual. If the bone has pierced the skin, you’re dealing with a compound fracture that requires emergency care due to the risk of infection and severe bleeding.
Symptoms of a Broken Arm
Limited movement or total inability to use the arm is common. Simple actions like raising a hand, turning a doorknob, or holding an object can be impossible due to the intense pain and mechanical dysfunction caused by the fracture.
Some patients may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the fingers or hand. These symptoms suggest that nerves or blood vessels near the fracture may be compromised, which is a medical emergency. Coolness or a lack of pulse in the hand may also be a warning sign.
In children, symptoms might present more subtly. They may simply refuse to use the arm, cry when it’s touched, or become irritable. Because they may not fully explain what happened, observing their behaviour is important in detecting injury.
The earlier the symptoms of a broken arm are identified, the better the chances of full recovery. Ignoring these signs can lead to improper healing, long-term deformity, or chronic pain, so early diagnosis is critical.
[Next: Diagnosis of a Broken Arm →]
