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Fractures

URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/fractures.html

Also called: Also called: Broken bone

A fracture is a break, usually in a bone. If the broken bone punctures the skin, it is called an open or compound fracture. Fractures commonly happen because of car accidents, falls or sports injuries. Another cause is osteoporosis, which causes weakening of the bones. Overuse can cause stress fractures, which are very small cracks in the bone.

Symptoms of a fracture are

You need to get medical care right away for any fracture. You may need to wear a cast or splint. Sometimes you need surgery to put in plates, pins or screws to keep the bone in place.

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The primary NIH organization for research on Fractures is the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases - http://www.niams.nih.gov/

Fractures - Multiple Languages - http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/languages/fractures.html

Date last updated: October 13 2008
Topic last reviewed: May 20 2008