A fracture is a medical term used to describe a broken bone. It is a common injury that can occur in people of all ages, ranging from a small crack in the bone to a complete break. Fractures can occur due to a sudden impact or trauma, such as a fall or a sports injury, or due to a medical condition that weakens the bones, such as osteoporosis.
There are different types of fractures, and they are classified based on the severity and location of the injury:
Closed or simple fracture: This type of fracture occurs when the bone breaks but does not penetrate the skin.
Open or compound fracture: This type of fracture occurs when the bone breaks and protrudes through the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
Complete fracture: This type of fracture occurs when the bone is completely broken into two or more pieces.
Incomplete fracture: This type of fracture occurs when the bone is cracked but not completely broken.
Greenstick fracture: This type of fracture is most commonly seen in children, and occurs when the bone bends and cracks but does not completely break.
Symptoms of a fracture can include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, deformity, and difficulty moving the affected area. Treatment for a fracture depends on the severity of the injury and may include immobilization of the affected area with a cast or splint, pain relief medication, and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the broken bones or to insert hardware to hold the bones in place while they heal.
If you suspect that you have a fracture, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further damage and to ensure proper healing.
