Bone fractures

A fracture can occur in any bone in the body, including the vertebrae or the ribs, although it is most common in the extremities. Broken bones are called simple fractures when the skin is intact and compound fractures when the skin is broken. Compound fractures cause complications because open wounds are more susceptible to infection and substantial blood loss.
A fracture is obvious if a cracking sound occurs with injury, or when the affected part is deformed and immobile. If swelling, bruising and pain are marked after an injury, or if the injured part is difficult to move, a fracture should be considered. Fractured bones near joints are often mistaken for a bad sprain. Fractured ribs are particularly painful on breathing and coughing, but are no more painful than bruised ribs. If you are uncertain, an X-ray is often the only sure method of confirming a break. Immediate medical attention is recommended before the bone sets improperly. It usually takes between two weeks and six months to heal a fracture, depending on the age and health of the person afflicted and the severity of the injury.

A bone fracture is a break that results from an injury-often a fall or a traffic accident. Any bone disease will increase a predisposition for fractures, so much so that a mild injury causes multiple breaks. The older the individual, the more common this is, and it is often related to osteoporosis. Minerals are essential for bone strength, while protein added to the diet will provide tissues with flexibility. If either element is lacking, bones will become too soft or too brittle to withstand injury. A poor diet will not provide the essential nutrients for bone structure. Nutrient absorption is often hindered by digestive problems. Contributing to osteoporosis are hormonal imbalances and inadequate physical activity.

Supplements and herbs

Since the bones are composed of proteins and minerals, these are the most essential nutrients needed to heal a broken bone. Silica, calcium and magnesium are the most vital minerals. Silica is available in water-soluble vegetal silica capsules or in gel form, called silicea. Vitamins C and D promote the absorption of calcium. Vitamin C is also important for healthy bones. Green food supplements rich in chlorophyll are also recommended for their trace mineral supply.

To reduce swelling, help absorb calcium and rebuild bones, herbal remedies provide effective results.

• Horsetail baths help reduce chronic swellings around broken bones. The silica in horsetail is a great rebuilder of bones, aiding the body to absorb and use of calcium. Add 5 drops of horsetail oil to bath water.
• Apply a comfrey tincture to the injured area, followed with herbal packs of sorrel or goldenrod.

Homeopathy

• Calc phos
  Calcium and phosphorus are the two main minerals needed for building up healthy bones. Use Calc phos after the bone has properly knitted and give it daily until fully healed. It is also a good remedy for people with weak or brittle bones that are prone to fractures.

What else you can do

• Moderate exposure to sun activates vitamin D production, which is essential for calcium absorption and bone healing. Take a daily sun bath for thirty to sixty minutes.
• Magnetic therapy helps relieve pain and speeds bone healing.

How much to take

• Silica, 1,000 mg
• Calcium, 1,000-1,500 mg in divided doses
• Magnesium, 500-750 mg in divided doses
• Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 500 mg
• Vitamin D, 400 IU
• Chondroitin sulphate, 500 mg
• Glucosamine sulphate, 500 mg
• Boron, 10 mg
• Green food supplements, 1 tbsp.

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