Bone Fractures Flashcards
Three common causes of bone fractures?
Bone stress over time, impact fractures, and sick bones.
How does having stress on a bone over time cause it to fracture and break?
too much pressure on the same spot over time and is especially likely to happen when the muscles are tired (cannot absorb impact, impact goes straight to the bone). ex: running
How does an impact fracture occur?
Sudden hard hit, too much stress for the bone to handle at once. ex: fall, strong direct hit like a car crash or sport accident
Why are sick bones more likely to fracture?
Certain diseases can make bones thinner and more fragile than normal, healthy bones. Can happen during regular, everyday activities. ex: osteoporosis
What is a simple fracture?
no part of the bone has broken through the skin.
What is a compound fracture? Why is it worse than a simple fracture.
the bone has broken through the skin.
higher risk of infection from air, dirt, and bacteria.
What are the five most broken bones in the body? Why?
Clavicle, arm, wrist, hip, and ankle.
* we tend to use our arms and hands to break a fall
* impacts to the shoulder from falling on out stretched arms and direct hit
How do casts help broken bones heal?
They keep broken bone in one place and prevent it from moving.
* takes off pressure to heal more quickly and keep the pieces aligned.
What activities can contribute to healthy bones?
Exercise, eating healthy, no smoking
