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Cast Treatment of Broken BonesFracture InformaitonHand, Wrist, and Arm FracturesFoot, Ankle, and Leg FracturesHip Fractures More Broken Bone InformationRelated SitesFracture InformationAbout.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD
What is a Fracture?Most people were introduced to the orthopedic surgeon at a young age when they were brought to the emergency room with their first broken bone. For me the memory of the event is now faint (something about a bicycle and pavement), but the cast that I was able to tote around the classroom is fondly recalled as one of my moments of youthful pride. Introduction to FracturesFractures, broken bones--you can call it what you wish, it means the same thing--are among the most common orthopedic problems, about 6.8 million come to medical attention each year in the United States. The average citizen in a developed country can expect to sustain two fractures over the course of their lifetime.
Is it a Fracture or a Break? Fractures happen because an area of bone is not able to support the energy placed on it (quite obvious, but it becomes more complicated). Therefore, there are two critical factors in determining why a fracture occurs:
Statistics Updated: October 1, 2004 Cast Treatment of Broken BonesFracture InformaitonHand, Wrist, and Arm FracturesFoot, Ankle, and Leg FracturesHip Fractures More Broken Bone Information |
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