Orthopedic surgeons have advised Nigerians to stop visiting traditional bone setters and healers for the treatment of fractures, dislocations, and joint injuries. They warned that such practices often worsen patients’ conditions.
The experts explained that delays in seeking hospital care can cause serious complications. Many patients end up with poorly healed fractures, deformities, or even life-threatening problems that sometimes lead to amputation.
They stressed that the safest option is to get prompt and proper treatment in certified hospitals. Nigerians, they said, should rely on evidence-based orthopedic care instead of unregulated traditional methods to avoid preventable disability and death.
At the 46th Annual Scientific Conference of the National Orthopedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Olatunji Idowu expressed concern about the late arrival of trauma patients in hospitals. He said most only seek hospital care when complications have already developed.
Speaking on the theme “Socio-economic Burden of Orthopedic Trauma: Nipping the Menace in the Bud”, Idowu noted that certain behaviors increase the chances of trauma among Nigerians.
He explained that if a patient with a leg fracture comes early, treatment might only require casting or a minor surgery. Sadly, many first go to bone setters, and by the time they get to the hospital, the injury has worsened. A surgery that should last one hour may then take up to 10 hours.
“The right place for orthopedic trauma care is the hospital — not a religious house or traditional healer. Delayed or wrong choices can lead to very serious consequences,” he warned.
Idowu said orthopedic trauma includes injuries to bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons, usually caused by accidents or other factors. These injuries, he added, have serious social and economic effects.
He pointed out that road traffic accidents are the leading cause of trauma worldwide. Other causes include domestic falls, sports injuries, industrial accidents, and workplace hazards.
“When you injure bones or joints, the immediate effect is immobility. This disrupts daily life, reduces productivity, and creates a heavy burden on families, hospitals, and the economy,” Idowu explained.
He said prevention is the best way to reduce the trauma burden. He called on government to enforce safety laws and ensure hospitals are well equipped to provide quick response when accidents occur.
He also urged individuals to make better choices by seeking hospital care instead of wasting time at unqualified centres. This, he said, would reduce the risks of disability and save more lives.
The acting Medical Director of NOHIL, Dr. Wakeel Lawal, also spoke at the conference. He said the increasing number of trauma cases is already overstretching Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“It puts pressure on hospitals and causes burnout among staff. The problem is worse now because many health workers have left the system,” he said.
Lawal explained that trauma is a global challenge, but education and awareness can reduce its impact in Nigeria.
He stressed that while accidents cannot be completely avoided, prevention and sensitization are key. “By teaching people safer habits and reducing risky behavior, we can lower the number of trauma cases and lessen their impact on patients, families, and the nation,” he said.
