What Are the Common Types of Bone Fractures?
Bone Fractures are classified into several types based on their characteristics, severity, and the manner in which the bone breaks. One common type is the transverse fracture, where the break is a straight line across the bone. Oblique fractures occur at an angle, while spiral fractures are caused by a twisting force, resulting in a spiral-shaped break. Comminuted fractures involve the bone shattering into multiple pieces, often due to high-impact trauma. Another frequent type is the greenstick fracture, where the bone bends and cracks without breaking completely, typically seen in children due to their softer bones.
Other types include Stress Fractures, which are hairline cracks caused by repetitive forces or overuse and compression fractures, which occur when bones, like those in the spine, are compressed. Open fractures are particularly serious, as the broken bone pierces through the skin, increasing the risk of infection. Each type of fracture requires a specific treatment approach to ensure proper healing and to minimize complications such as improper alignment or long-term joint problems.
