what is a fracture

A fracture is a partial or complete break in a bone. It occurs when a force exerted against a bone is stronger than the bone can structurally withstand. Fractures are usually caused by traumas like falls, car accidents, or sports injuries, but some medical conditions and repetitive forces like running can increase the risk of experiencing certain types of fractures. There are different types of fractures, including open or compound fractures, closed or simple fractures, greenstick fractures, comminuted fractures, and avulsion fractures. Symptoms of a fracture include intense pain, deformity, swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the injury, numbness, and tingling, and problems moving a limb. If you suspect a fracture, it is important to seek medical care right away. An X-ray can tell if your bone is broken, and you may need to wear a cast or splint. Sometimes, surgery is required to put in plates, pins, or screws to keep the bone in place.