Greenstick fracture

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Greenstick fracture
X-ray of a greenstick fracture of the forearm
Synonyms	Incomplete fracture
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pain, swelling, deformity
Complications	Compartment syndrome, nerve injury
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Trauma
Risks	Children, adolescents
Diagnosis	X-ray
Differential diagnosis	Torus fracture, complete fracture
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Casting, splinting, surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Common in children
Deaths	N/A

Greenstick fractures are a type of bone fracture commonly seen in children. This fracture occurs in young, soft bones where the bone bends and breaks only on one side, resembling the way a green stick breaks when bent.

Characteristics

Child with a Cast for Greenstick Fracture

Nature of the Fracture

• Unlike complete fractures, a Greenstick fracture involves a partial break in the bone.
• One side of the bone bends, while the other side fractures.

Age Group Affected

• Predominantly affects children, whose bones are softer and more flexible compared to adults.

Causes

• Typically caused by falls or impacts in sports and physical activities.
• The flexibility of children's bones makes them more susceptible to this type of fracture.

Symptoms

• Pain and swelling at the site of the fracture.
• Visible deformity may be present in the affected limb.
• Difficulty in using the affected limb.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider.
• X-rays are commonly used to confirm the presence and extent of the fracture.

Treatment

Immediate Care

• Includes immobilization of the affected limb.
• Application of ice to reduce swelling.

Medical Intervention

• Treatment often involves casting or splinting the affected limb.
• In some cases, manipulation of the bone may be required to correct the bend.

Prognosis

• Generally, children recover well from Greenstick fractures with appropriate treatment.
• Full healing typically occurs within weeks to months.

Prevention

• Ensuring safe play environments and using protective gear during sports.
• Educating children on safe physical activity practices.

See Also

• Bone Fracture
• Pediatric Orthopedics
• X-ray

External Links

• American Academy of Pediatrics - Bone Health
• OrthoInfo - Fractures in Children

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