What is a fracture?
Fracture is another word for a broken bone. A bone can break partially or completely in many different ways, including:
- Greenstick fractures, in which the bone bends and cracks on one side
- Stress fractures, which cause a tiny crack in the bone
- Open (compound) fractures, which break the skin and may cause the bone to stick out
- Comminuted fractures, in which the bone shatters into more than two pieces
- Growth plate fractures, which affect the growing bone of a child or teenager
- Oblique fracture, in which the bone breaks on an angled pattern
- Compression fractures, which cause the bone to collapse or buckle
What causes fractures?
Most fractures result from trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or sports injuries. Certain types, such as stress fractures, are due to overuse from repetitive movements like running or dancing.
Various types of fractures are more common among different age groups. For example, most greenstick fractures occur in children under 10 years old, and compression fractures are more common in older adults with osteoporosis. Growth plate fractures only affect children and teens who are still growing.
What are the signs and symptoms of a fracture?
Immediate, intense pain at the time of injury is a common sign that you may have a fracture. Other signs and symptoms of a fracture include:
- Swelling and bruising
- Inability to bear weight on or move the injured area
- Visible deformity, such as a bone that appears crooked or out of place
If you suspect you or your child has a fracture, Dr. Weiss and his team can help.
What does fracture care involve?
First, Dr. Weiss carefully examines your injury and takes an on-site digital X-ray to determine the type and severity of your fracture. Then, he provides individualized fracture care. This typically involves aligning the bone and applying a cast or brace.
Dr. Weiss has extensive experience with fracture management and makes sure to apply, mold, and remove every cast himself. He uses the most advanced materials for casting, including 3M® and waterproof AquaCast® materials.
After your bone heals, Dr. Weiss recommends a rehabilitation plan that may include physical therapy.
For expert fracture care, call Andrew B. Weiss, MD, or book an appointment online today.
