Fractures

What are Fractures?

A fracture is a medical term that describes a partial or complete break in the continuity of a bone. When a bone is subjected to excessive force, it may break. Fractures can occur in any bone in the body, but they are most common in the long bones of the arms and legs.

What are the Types of Fractures?

There are many different types of fractures, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most common types of fractures include:

• Closed fractures do not break the skin. These are also known as simple fractures.
• Open fractures break the skin. These are also known as compound fractures.
• Stable fractures are fractures in which the bone fragments are not displaced.
• Unstable fractures are fractures in which the bone fragments are displaced.
• Comminuted fractures are fractures in which the bone is broken into multiple pieces.
• Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone that are caused by overuse.

The type of fracture that you have will depend on the force of the impact, the location of the fracture, and the condition of your bones.

What are the Symptoms of a Fracture?

The symptoms of a fracture can vary depending on the type of fracture. However, some of the most common symptoms include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Deformity
• Loss of function