Broken bone

Definition

If more pressure is put on a bone than it can stand, it will split or break. A break of any size is called a fracture. If the broken bone punctures the skin, it is called an open fracture (compound fracture).

A stress fracture is a hairline crack in the bone that develops because of repeated or prolonged forces against the bone.

Alternative Names

Considerations

It is hard to tell a dislocated bone from a broken bone. However, both are emergency situations, and the basic first aid steps are the same.

Causes

The following are common causes of broken bones:

• Fall from a height
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Direct blow
• Child abuse
• Repetitive forces, such as those caused by running, can cause stress fractures of the foot, ankle, tibia, or hip