Foot Conditions A-Z
Fractures
A fracture is a break of any size in a bone. There are different degrees and types of fractures. A displaced bone fracture occurs when the broken ends of a fracture move away from one another and a significant gap develops between them.
A non-displaced fracture (also called a “hairline” or “stress” fracture) occurs when a bone develops a crack or breaks, but the broken ends don’t move apart.
A pathological fracture occurs when a bone that has been weakened by a disease such as cancer, osteoporosis or other systemic issue develops a fracture. This type of fracture can occur without a high level of force or trauma, often in day-to-day activities.
A compound or open fracture occurs when a broken bone protrudes through the skin and creates an open wound. Such fractures are serious and require immediate medical attention.