Fractures

Fractures or a “broken bone” can affect the bones of the arm, wrist, or the small bones of the hand. A fracture can result following trauma, including a fall, a twist or torque, a crush injury, or from a direct blow as often seen in sports injury. Fractures may be closed, meaning the skin is not cut or broken. Fractures may also be open or “compound”, meaning the skin is broken. In this type of fracture bleeding is common and bone may or may not be visible. Diagnosing a fracture relies on visual inspection or looking at the injury, palpating or feeling the injury, and with X-rays.