Musculoskeletal

Fractures (Bone Fractures)

A bone fracture is a break in the continuity of a bone. Fractures can range from a thin crack to a complete break, and may be caused by high-force impact, stress, or weakening of the bone by conditions such as osteoporosis or cancer. They can occur in any bone in the body and are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries.

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Symptoms

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Causes

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Treatments

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Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Fractures (Bone Fractures). This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Sudden onset pain at the time of injury
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Deformity of the affected limb
  • Tenderness
  • Inability to use the affected area
  • Numbness or tingling (if nerves affected)

Causes

  • Trauma (fall, vehicle accident, sports injury)
  • Overuse/stress fractures (repetitive loading)
  • Pathological fractures (bone weakened by disease: osteoporosis, tumor)

Diagnosis

  • X-rays (primary)
  • CT scan (complex fractures)
  • MRI (stress fractures, soft tissue involvement)
  • Bone scan

Treatment

  • Immobilization (cast, splint, brace)
  • Traction
  • External fixation
  • Internal fixation (surgery)
  • Medications for pain
  • Physical therapy during rehabilitation

Risk Factors

  • Age (children and elderly)
  • Low bone density (osteoporosis)
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • High-impact sports
  • Female sex (for osteoporotic fractures)

Prevention

  • Adequate calcium and vitamin D
  • Weight-bearing exercise
  • Fall prevention for elderly
  • Protective equipment in sports

Prevalence

Approximately 6.8 million fractures occur in the United States each year.