The History of Broken Bone Treatment: From Splints to Screws

Throughout history, humans have suffered from broken bones due to accidents, battles, and other causes. The treatment of broken bones has evolved drastically over time, from ancient civilizations using splints made of wood and leather, to modern orthopedic surgery involving metal screws and plates. Let’s take a journey through the history of broken bone treatment and see how far we’ve come.

Ancient Egyptians were among the first civilizations to document their methods for treating broken bones. They used a combination of splints made from wood and leather, along with herbal remedies to help with pain and inflammation. The splints were often left on for several weeks to allow the bone to heal properly. The ancient Greeks and Romans also had their own methods for treating broken bones, including using bandages and plasters to immobilize the affected area.

Fast forward to the Middle Ages, and we see a shift in the treatment of broken bones. Barber-surgeons, who were responsible for both cutting hair and performing surgery, began to specialize in bone-setting. They used traction and manual manipulation to realign broken bones, although the success rate was often low and many patients suffered from infections and other complications. It wasn’t until the Renaissance that significant advancements were made in the treatment of broken bones, with the development of new surgical techniques and tools.