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However, a fracture may also be the result of some medical conditions that weaken the bones. These include osteoporosis and some types of cancer. The medical term for these is a pathological fracture.

In this article, we detail the different types their various causes, and the treatments available.

Types Bone Fracture

There are a number of other fracture types, including:

• Avulsion fracture: A muscle or ligament pulls on the bone, fracturing it.
• Comminuted fracture: An impact shatters the bone into many pieces.
• Compression, or crush, fracture: This generally occurs in the spongy bone in the spine. For example, the front portion of a vertebra in the spine may collapse due to osteoporosis.
• Fracture dislocation: This occurs when a joint dislocates, and one of the bones of the joint fractures.
• Greenstick fracture: The bone partly fractures on one side but does not break completely, because the rest of the bone can bend.
• Hairline fracture: This is a thin, partial fracture of the bone.
• Impacted fracture: a piece of the bone may impact another bone.
• Intra-articular fracture: This occurs when a fracture extends into the surface of a joint.
• Longitudinal fracture: This is when the fracture extends along the length of the bone.
• Oblique fracture: An oblique fracture is one that occurs opposite to a bone’s long axis.
• Pathological fracture: This occurs when an underlying condition weakens the bone and causes a fracture.
• Spiral fracture: Here, at least one part of the bone twists during a break.
• Stress fracture: Repeated stress and strain can fracture a bone. This is commonTrusted Source among athletes.
• Transverse fracture: This is a straight break across the bone.

Causes

While bones are very strong, they can break. Most often, breaks happen because the bone runs into a stronger force (getting thrown forward in a car crash, say). Also, repetitive forces – like from running. Healthcare providers call these types of injuries stress fractures.

Another reason for fractures is osteoporosis, which weakens bones as you age. It’s a serious condition, so older adults should speak to a healthcare provider about their risk.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a fracture depend . For example, you’ll likely know right away if you have a problem with your arm, leg or finger. If you’re not sure, consider these possible symptoms:

• Difficulty using the limb.
• Noticeable and unusual bump, bend or twist.
• Severe pain.
• Swelling.

 

At Amrita Medical Center, our staff is happy to answer any of your questions and help you decide if  the right fit for you. We even offer same day appointments for your convenience. Contact us here!