Orthopaedic Conditions / Articles
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This article was created with AI technology for the purposes of educating readers living in remote communities without convenient access to a physician or a physical therapist.
The content in this article is not a substitute for seeing a licensed physician and readers are encouraged to see a physician or physical therapist as soon as possible if they experience increased pain.
What is a fracture?
Fractures are broken bones. They can happen to anyone, at any age. A fracture can be small, like a crack, or more serious, where the bone moves out of place. Knowing the different types of fractures and how they are treated can help you understand what to expect if you or someone you know gets injured.
A fracture means a bone has broken. Bones are strong, but they can break if too much force is placed on them. This can happen from:
- Falls
- Sports injuries
- Car accidents
- Repeated stress over time
Common signs of a fracture include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Trouble moving the area
- A bone that looks out of place
Doctors use X-rays to confirm most fractures.
1. Simple (closed) fracture
A simple fracture is when the bone breaks but does not go through the skin.
This is one of the most common types.
Treatment:
- Rest the injured area
- Use a cast or splint to keep the bone still
- Pain control with medicine
- Healing time of several weeks
Most simple fractures heal well with proper care.
2. Open (compound) fracture
An open fracture is when the broken bone comes through the skin.
This is a serious injury because of the risk of infection.
Treatment:
- Emergency medical care
- Cleaning the wound (surgery)
- Antibiotics to prevent infection
- Surgery to fix the bone (often with metal plates or rods)
Open fractures need quick treatment to avoid complications.
3. Displaced fracture
A displaced fracture means the bone pieces have moved out of their normal position.
Treatment:
- A doctor may move the bone back into place (this is called reduction)
- A cast, splint, or surgery may be needed
- Surgery may include pins, plates, or screws
Proper alignment is important for healing.
4. Non-displaced fracture
A non-displaced fracture means the bone is cracked but still in the right position.
Treatment:
- Rest and protection
- Cast or brace
- Pain control
These fractures often heal faster than displaced ones.
5. Stress fracture
A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone caused by repeated use, not a single injury.
This is common in runners or athletes.
Treatment:
- Rest from the activity causing pain
- Use of supportive shoes or braces
- Gradual return to activity
If not treated early, stress fractures can worsen.
6. Greenstick fracture
A greenstick fracture happens mostly in children. The bone bends and cracks but does not fully break.
Children’s bones are softer, so they can bend more.
Treatment:
- Cast or splint
- Regular check-ups to ensure proper healing
These usually heal well with proper care.
7. Comminuted fracture
A comminuted fracture means the bone is broken into several pieces.
This often happens in high-impact injuries.
Treatment:
- Surgery is often needed
- Metal plates, screws, or rods may be used
- Longer healing time
These fractures can be more complex to treat.
8. Compression fracture
A compression fracture happens when a bone is crushed. This often occurs in the spine.
It is more common in older adults, especially those with weak bones.
Treatment:
- Pain control
- Rest and limited activity
- Back brace
- In some cases, special procedures to support the bone
General treatment steps
No matter the type, most fractures follow similar care steps:
1. Protection
The bone must stay still so it can heal. This may include:
- Casts
- Splints
- Braces
2. Pain control
Pain is managed with:
- Rest
- Ice
- Medication
3. Healing time
Bones take time to heal. Most fractures take:
- 4–6 weeks for minor breaks
- Several months for more serious injuries
4. Rehabilitation
After healing, movement and strength must return.
This may include:
- Gentle exercises
- Physiotherapy
- Gradual return to normal activity
When to seek help
You should always see a doctor if you think you have a fracture. Go to the hospital right away if:
- The bone is sticking out
- There is severe pain
- The limb looks deformed
- You cannot move the area
Final thoughts
Fractures are common injuries, but most can be treated successfully. The type of fracture helps guide the treatment. Some need simple care like a cast, while others need surgery.
With proper care, rest, and time, most bones heal well. Understanding the type of fracture and following medical advice can help you recover safely and return to your normal activities.