Cast Care: Why You Need a Cast
Common Types of Fractures
Bones can break anywhere in the body. Casts are often used for fractures in the hands, arms, legs, or feet. There are many types of fractures. But all fractures heal the same way: New bone grows to connect the broken pieces. A cast holds broken bones in place while they heal.
How bones break
Depending on the injury, bones can break in different ways. These are the most common types of fractures. (You may have a fracture that’s not shown here.)
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Nondisplaced fracture
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Displaced fracture
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Comminuted fracture
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Open fracture
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Greenstick fracture
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Updated:  
January 17, 2020
Sources:  
General Principles of Fracture Management: Bone Healing and Fracture Description. UpToDate.
Reviewed By:  
Images reviewed by StayWell medical illustration team.,Joseph, Thomas, N., MD