Science of Fracture

What is Fracture

Any break in the continuity of bone tissue (hairline or multi-fragmented (comminuted))

Why Fracture?

Stress applied to the bone tissue exceeds its strength

Stress applied to the bone tissue is rapid and multi-directional

Idiopathic conditions that affect bone strength

Types of Forces

Direct: fracture occurs at point of force impact

Indirect: fracture occurs as a result of compression or rotational force applied at a distance

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Fracture Risk Factors

  • trauma/sudden impact
  • history of osteoporosis (loss of bone density)
    • flexion activities, such as sit-ups, repetitive low bending, or reaching lifting objects in a flexed position should be avoided to minimize risk of compression fracture
  • female
  • body type (tall, thin)
  • history of falls. A FOOSH - fall on the outstretched hand, is a common fracture etiology for the distal arm and wrist. A distal radius fracture is also known as a Colles' fracture. Note the fracture line on the radial neck in the Colles' fracture image below.

 

Colles Fracture  

Lucien Monfils [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]