Treatment Overview & Care Pathway

Fracture: Causes

Physical trauma, overuse, and health conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis, are the leading causes of bone fractures. Other factors can also increase an individual’s risk of sustaining fractures. A fracture is a break in the continuity of a bone. Fractures range from small partial cracks to complete breaks and can occur in any bone. Physical trauma, overuse, and conditions such as osteoporosis are the most common causes of fractures. Additionally, a person’s bones typically become weaker through late adulthood. This increases their risk of fracturing a bone.

The body can repair most fractures, but medical intervention will usually be necessary to keep the broken bones in place. These interventions can range from external casts and splints to surgical screws and plates.