Broken Leg
What to do
If you think you or someone else has broken their leg, go immediately to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department . Call 999 for an ambulance ifthe injuryseems severeor you're not able to get to A&E quickly.
While you make your way to A&E or wait foran ambulance:
- avoid moving the injured leg as much as possible keep it straight and put a cushion or clothing underneath to support it
- don't try to realign any bones that are out of place
- cover any open wounds with a sterile dressing, a clean cloth or a clean item of clothing maintain direct pressure on the wound if itkeeps bleeding
If the person is pale, cold and sweaty (in shock), lie them down and carefully rest their legs above the level of their heart to improve their blood flow. When raising the broken leg, ensure it's kept straight and supported by a cushion. Keep them warm and calm until you can get medical help.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dez 2018
Introduction
Read about the signs of a broken leg, what you should do if you think someone has broken their leg, how a broken leg is treated and how long it takes to recover.
What to do
If you think you or someone else has broken their leg, go immediately to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department . Call 999 for an ambulance ifthe injuryseems severeor you're not able
How a broken leg is treated
Immobilisation First, a doctor will give you painkillers andmayfix a splint to your leg to secure it in position and prevent further damage. For severe pain, you may be given painkillinggas through a
Follow-up appointments
An appointment will be made for you to attend a fracture clinic so specialist orthopaedic doctors canmonitor your fracture. The first appointment is usually booked for a week or two after you're disch
Recovering from a broken leg
You'll be given advice by your doctor about how much you should move your leg and when you can put weight on it. It takes around six to eight weeks for a minor fracture to heal. You'll probably need
Possible complications
For most people, a broken bone will heal within a few months and there won't be any further problems. However,complications can sometimes occur. These include: Damaged muscle, nerves or blood vess
Subscribe
Ask the doctor
Rate this article
Find products