Bike crash remains major cause of bone fractures

CEBU, Philippines - Motorcycle crash remains to be the major cause of bone fracture leading to serious injuries and other orthopedic problems in Cebu.

The Cebu Orthopedic Institute said yesterday that motorcycle accidents are the most prevalent cause of bone fracture. Dr. Jose Flordelis, a specialist on Orthopedics from the Philippine Orthopedic Center, warned motorists during the annual COI symposium to be careful.

Flordelis, who has a specialty on Adult Orthopaedics, Joints and Spine, however said that other accidents in construction sites contribute to the growing numbers of construction workers who suffer from fracture.

He however failed to provide figures when asked about the ratio of motorcycle accidents vis-à-vis the number of patients they have treated for bone fractures. Flordelis only said that the cases are prevalent enough to be noticed.

Orthopedics is a surgical specialty that deals with the identification and management of musculoskeletal problems while a bone fracture is a disorder wherein there is a break in the bone caused by an injury or an underlying disease.

If one suspects a sprain, strain, or a fracture, he/she should follow the “RICE” principle. “R” is to Rest the injured part; “I” is put Ice or application of cold compress; “C” is to Compress to minimize swelling; and “E” is to Elevate to minimize swelling.

Other known orthopedic problems include: sprains, strains, fractures, arthritis, back pain, sports injuries, bone tumors, congenital deformities in children, and scoliosis.

Dr. Jose Antonio G. San Juan, a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeon and Philippine Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine said immediate care can already be done if patients seek early medical assistance but emphasized that not all orthopedic conditions need “intensive medical supervision.

“There’s first aid. They can take care of themselves,” he said.

He however suggested that consultation to a medical expert be done for serious conditions.

But for those people who cannot afford to seek medical help from private hospitals, Dr. Robinson Uy, a doctor of Orthopedics specializing in Sports Medicine with a post - residency training from the Prince of Wales Hospital in Hong Kong said that people should not be hopeless.

‘We refer them to government charities institutions, equal care can be given whether you are private or charity case,” he said.

Osteoporosis, a bone disorder characterized by a decrease in bone density leading to an increased risk of a fracture, was also tackled during the symposium.

Experts said that to manage osteoporosis, one should take calcium-rich foods and have a medication composed of calcium supplements, vitamin D. and Biphosphonates. Exercise is also recommended.   (FREEMAN NEWS)