Broken shinbone

A broken shinbone is a fracture of the lower leg. That does not happen easily, it usually requires a lot of force. There is immediate severe pain and standing on the leg is no longer possible. Recovery takes time and patience.

This article discusses the different causes, characteristics and treatment options for a broken shinbone.

How does a broken shinbone occur?

Because the shinbone is a very strong bone, it does not break just like that. Usually a lot of force is needed. A broken shinbone can be the result of a trauma such as a traffic accident, a fall, or a hard blow or kick directly against the shinbone. The fibula often breaks at the same time as the shinbone. This is then called an under-leg fracture or cruris fracture.

In rare cases a broken shinbone is a pathological fracture. Due to an underlying disease such as osteoporosis (bone loss) or bone cancer the bone is so weakened that it even breaks after a small knock or collision.

Characteristics (symptoms) of a broken shinbone

A broken shinbone is always accompanied by a sudden severe pain. It is also no longer possible to bear weight on the leg. In many cases the lower leg is crooked, especially if the fibula is also broken. In an 'open fracture' the broken bone fragment protrudes through the skin.

If a broken bone fragment presses on nerves, this can lead to muscle paralysis or altered sensation and tingling in the leg and foot.

How is a broken shinbone diagnosed?

A broken shinbone is often already easy to establish during an interview and physical examination by the GP or physiotherapist. If a fracture is suspected, an X-ray will be taken in the hospital. The fracture is clearly visible on this. After the X-ray a CT scan and/or MRI scan may be performed if necessary. These provide more clarity about possible damage to nerves, muscles or surrounding tissue.

Treatment of a broken shinbone

The treatment of a broken shinbone depends on the severity and location of the fracture. After the examinations in the hospital, the doctor determines whether an operation is necessary.

During the operation the surgeon repositions the bone fragments. The surgeon then fixes the bone fragments together with metal plates and screws. Usually these plates and screws can remain in place permanently.

If surgery is not necessary, the fracture will, if required, first be reduced and then treated with a splint or plaster cast. The plaster period usually lasts six weeks. During that time you may not or only partially bear weight on the leg. To reduce the pain and swelling, the doctor often prescribes medicines.

About six weeks after the operation, or following the plaster period, the leg is weight-bearing again. It is important to build this up carefully. During recovery it is sensible to enlist the help of a physiotherapist. The treatment focuses on restoring normal mobility and strengthening the leg. To this end, the physiotherapist uses, among other things, mobilisations, exercise therapy, massage and medical taping.