A radiologist is a doctor who specializes in reading medical images like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to diagnose diseases and injuries. They help other doctors understand what’s happening inside the body and suggest treatments.

X-Ray

X-rays, or plain radiographs, are a way for providers to get pictures of the inside of your body. X-rays use radiation to create black-and-white images that a radiologist reads. X-rays are most commonly used to look at bones and joints, but providers can use them to quickly diagnose other conditions, like lung infections, too.

Bone Fractures

A fracture is a break or crack in a bone, caused by excessive force.

Causes

• Traumatic incidents (sports injuries, accidents, falls)
• Osteoporosis, cancer (weakened bones)

Symptoms

• Pain, swelling, bruising
• Deformity, inability to use the limb

Types of Fractures

• Closed (simple): Bone doesn't pierce skin.
• Open (compound): Bone breaks skin.
• Greenstick: Partial crack (common in children).
• Hairline: Stress fracture.
• Complicated: Damage to surrounding tissues.
• Comminuted: Bone shattered into pieces.
• Avulsion: Tendon pulls bone fragment.
• Compression: Bones forced together.

Complications

• Blood loss, organ/tissue damage
• Stunted bone growth (in children)
• Infection

First Aid

• Immobilize the injured area.
• Control bleeding, cover wounds.
• Don't straighten broken bones.
• Use splints, slings for support.
• Apply cold pack.
• Seek medical help immediately (call emergency).

Diagnosis

• X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans

Treatment

• Splints, braces, plaster casts
• Traction, surgical rods/plates
• Pain relief

Post-Operation Care

• Check for feeling, circulation.
• Pain management.
• Keep the injured area still.

Healing Process

• Blood clots form, then callus (fibrous cells and cartilage).
• Callus replaced by real bone.
• Follow doctor's instructions for recovery.

Self-Care

• Avoid direct heat on cast.
• Rest the limb.
• Use crutches correctly.
• Don't lift or drive until healed.
• Don't insert objects into cast.
• Keep cast dry.
• Seek immediate medical attention for complications.

Long-Term Outlook

• Healing takes weeks to months.
• Rehabilitation exercises may be needed.
• Follow-up x-rays to monitor healing.

Where to Get Help

• Your GP
• Urgent Care Clinics
• Nurse-on-Call
• Emergency services (call emergency).