Bone Fractures

A fracture occurs when the physical force you exert on the bone is stronger than the bone itself. Broken bones are most common in childhood, although you can fracture a bone at any age. Older people have more brittle bones (osteoporosis) so are more likely than younger people to fracture a bone in a fall.

Fractures can be closed, meaning that the cracked or broken bone does not damage the surrounding tissue or protrude through the skin while an open or compound fracture has broken through the skin.

There are many different types of fractures. These include:

• Comminuted fracture, where the bone is shattered into several pieces.
• Greenstick fracture, which is a partial fracture where the bone is not completely broken. It is more common among children as their bones are softer and more elastic.
• Hairline fracture, a partial fracture which is hard to detect in routine X-rays.
• Oblique fracture, which occurs when the bone has a diagonal or angled break.
• Pathological fracture, in which an underlying condition has caused the bone to weaken, making it more likely to break.
• Stress fracture, which is more common in athletes or those who frequently endure repeated stresses and strains on the bones.
• Transverse fracture, which is a straight break right across the bone.

As there are so many kinds of fractures, symptoms of a fracture vary. With an open fracture, the damage is visible but closed fractures may present symptoms such as deformities or discoloured skin in the injured area.

Other symptoms would include pain, swelling and bruising. A fracture may also result in a grating sensation when attempting to move or being unable to move the affected area.

Serious injuries involving a large bone such as the pelvis or femur may also cause a person to look pale and clammy, feel dizzy or faint and an overall sensation of being sick or nauseous.

Physical examination and X-rays are usually sufficient to diagnose a fracture. Some types of fractures, which are harder to see on X-rays, may require additional tests such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or bone scan.

In order for bone to heal correctly, they need to be set or repositioned and maintained in their proper position with the help of a splint or cast. The type and severity of the fracture will determine if surgery is required.

Consult an orthopaedic specialist to learn more about treatment options best suited for your condition.

Make an Appointment Make an Enquiry

Complications from fractures or broken bones may include:

• Blood loss, as bones have a rich supply of blood
• Injuries to surrounding organs, tissues or surrounding structures. For example, a skull fracture may damage the brain, or a broken rib may pierce the lungs
• Stunted bone growth
• Poor alignment of limbs if the bones do not heal properly
• Infection