Orthopaedics - Medical Information Fractures A fracture is a broken bone. Fractures occur as a direct result of a physical force being exerted on a bone that is greater than it can withstand. Bones may be fractured in contact sports or as a result of a fall.
Fractures usually bring immediate and severe pain.
The severity of a bone fracture depends on the location of the break and the extent of the damage sustained by the bone and surrounding tissues. Compound fractures, for instance, can be very serious. In the case of a compound fracture, the bone protrudes from the skin and needs to be treated to avoid infection. Fractures or possible fractures should immediately be splinted and x-rayed by a physician. For more information about fractures, contact your health care provider.