Lucknow: Physiotherapists have outlined five key checks at home to identify a possible fracture after an injury: look for pain at a specific point on the bone; check the ability to walk four steps or lift an object; watch for visible deformity or abnormal swelling; check for numbness or changes in skin colour and temperature and recall if you heard a cracking sound at the time of injury. They have warned against massage till the time a fracture has been ruled out.Sharing the advisory at PHYSEM 2026, Dr Sanjay Shukla said sharp pain at a particular spot on the bone, rather than general soreness, could indicate a fracture. Inability to walk four steps after a leg or ankle injury, or lift an object after a hand injury, may also signal a significant injury.A crooked limb, abnormal swelling or a bone appearing out of place could indicate a dislocation or displaced fracture requiring immediate medical attention. Such injuries should not be manipulated, Shukla said.Numbness, tingling or changes in colour and temperature below the injured area may indicate nerve or circulation problems. Cold, bluish or numb fingers or toes require urgent care.A cracking or snapping sound during an injury does not confirm a fracture but should not be ignored, particularly when accompanied by pain, swelling or restricted movement.Shukla said older adults, children and people with osteoporosis may sustain fractures without significant swelling. Its absence does not necessarily mean an injury is minor.“Massage on an undiagnosed fracture can worsen the injury and damage surrounding tissues, nerves and blood vessels,” he said.Experts advised against massage and hot compresses during the first 48 hours. Ice wrapped in cloth may be applied for about 20 minutes at a time. Suspected fractures should be evaluated medically and promptly and X-rayed.More than 400 physiotherapists participated in PHYSEM 2026. Prof Syed Mohammad Waris, associate director of London Academy of Sports and Health Science, UK, was the keynote speaker.
