Fractures are breaks in bone that occur when a force applied to the bone is greater than the bone’s structural ability to withstand the force. Bones can break either partially or completely. Fractures can occur in any bone but are most likely to occur in the wrist, ankle or hip. A fracture seldom passes unnoticed and usually results in excruciating pain.

Less commonly, trauma can cause fractures in cartilage, such as in the trachea, ribs or ear.

There are several types of fractures. In addition, the severity varies depending on the degree and direction of the force placed upon the bone, the type of bone involved and the person’s age and general health.

Most people who experience a fracture exhibit symptoms that make it obvious that they have broken a bone. Nonetheless, a physician will typically perform a physical examination (including checking for swelling, deformity and tenderness) and may confirm diagnosis with an x-ray, bone scan, CAT scan or MRI.

Fractures will heal with rest, which allows new bone cells to grow and close the break. To aid this natural healing process, physicians may use casts, splints, pins or other devices to hold a fracture in the correct position while it heals. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to successfully treat a fracture.

People with certain conditions, such as osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, lupus or diabetes, are more prone to fractures. Although many fractures cannot be prevented, individuals can take steps, such as exercising and maintaining a calcium-rich diet, to strengthen their bones and make them less susceptible to breakage.