What is Fracture? 
A fracture is a broken or cracked bone. There are a number of signs and symptoms, which can indicate that a person has a fracture:
- The injured part cannot be moved normally.
- The injured part may have an unnatural shape or position.
- There is swelling and sometimes bruising.
- There is loss of strength.
- There may be an irregularity or shortening of the affected limb.
Signs & Symptoms of Fracture
- A fracture is an injury to a bone.
- Fractures are the result of too much pressure being put on the bone.
- Fractures can be caused by hits, falls, or repeated pressure (as in running) to a bone.
- A dislocation is when two connected bones separate. They are common in the knee, shoulder, fingers, and other joints.
- Dislocations are the result of too much pressure being put on a joint.
- The symptoms of a fracture include pain, swelling, bruising, or not being able to move the injured area.
- Fractures or Dislocations are usually treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
- To prevent these injuries, wear helmets and other protective gear during physical activities. Children should use car seats and seatbelts. Take steps to prevent falls.
Types of Fractures
- Simple
- Compound
- Comminuted
- Complicated
- Green Stick
- Impacted
- Spinal
Simple Fracture
A simple fracture is a broken bone that does not break the overlying skin. Tissue beneath the skin may be damaged.
Compound Fracture
A compound (open) fracture is a broken bone that breaks (pierces) the overlying skin. The broken bone may come through the skin, any trauma can also cause the phenomena.
An open fracture is contaminated and subject to infection.
Comminuted Fracture
This refers to a fracture when part of the broken bone is splintered into several fragments.
It is usually used when implying that exact anatomical restitution is difficult or impossible.
Usually occur in bone damaged by direct trauma.
Greenstick fractures
These occur in children as they have bones which are more springy than adult bones
The bone buckles or bends rather than snapping, often producing slight bulge in or altered curve to the edge of the bone on radiograph
Reduction is easy
Healing is quick
Typically seen in the clavicle, and the radius & ulna at the wrist
First Aid for Fractures
Treat severe bleeding and difficulty in breathing first.
Treat on the spot. Avoid unnecessary movement.
Immobilize the injured part; splint the joint above and the joint below the injury.
