Greenstick Fractures

A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture in a bone, typically in children, that occurs when the bone bends and breaks. It is most common in the growing long bones of children, but can also occur in adults when the bone is weakened by disease. It can be difficult to diagnose due to the common symptoms of pain and swelling. Treatment typically involves immobilization and in some cases, surgery may be needed to help the bone heal. Greenstick fractures are important to recognize and diagnose properly as they can lead to complications such as malalignment of the bone, delayed healing and growth disturbances.