Avulsion 

An avulsion fracture is particularly complicated because it also involves damage to a tendon or ligament. These fractures can be tough to diagnose because they may be asymptomatic until a new injury is discovered via x-ray. They're common in children as the mechanics of the injury impact active growth plates. Training will involve learning to stabilize these injuries and diagnosing them earlier before they create ongoing problems. 

Compression

This type of fracture is particularly concerning, as it occurs in the spine. It can cause the critical vertebrae to collapse, limiting function and causing pain. As osteoporosis is a frequent cause, it's common to see these fractures in older patients. Training in pain management, diagnosis, therapy, and CT scans is necessary. More advanced techniques include vertebroplasties or kyphoplasty, making spinal vertebrae models invaluable in training. 

Comminuted 

Any doctor working in an emergency room setting will likely see a comminuted fracture at some time or another, as they occur due to severe sudden trauma like one would see in a car accident. In these cases, the bone splinters into several fragments, usually resulting in a need for surgery to remove the free-floating bodies. Following that, setting and splinting are likely. 

Greenstick

These fractures get their name from green wood, as the fresher, softer wood is more likely to bend than break entirely. They occur most often in children. Those in pediatric training must become familiar with these incomplete breaks, which are usually resolved using removable splints due to the age of the patient. 

Impacted 

Impacted fractures can be particularly challenging to set, as the bone is jammed into another, making both difficult to move. While treatment typically includes splinting and positioning, surgical intervention may be necessary. 

Oblique

Curved fractures often accompany other youthful injuries like greenstick or stress fractures. In this, the damage is curved at an angle, making setting or splinting a challenge. The injury occurs from blunt force trauma and is particularly common in extremities. 

Spiral

This is also called a torsion fracture because it occurs through a sudden rotating force. These are serious injuries that carry a significant risk of complications as they are challenging to set and splint. They often heal slowly, taking more than six months to reform correctly. This injury is another commonly seen in children, especially in cases of child abuse. 

Stress 

Stress fractures are unique as they occur over a more extended period due to repetitive tasks and repeated blows. Anyone in sports medicine will likely see more than a few of these in their time treating patients. As this is only a hairline fracture, the typical resolution is simple immobilization. However, failure to adhere to these restricted activities can cause the fracture to grow more serious. 

Transverse 

This complete fracture goes straight across the bone and is very common in traumatic injuries—especially in long bones like the tibia. While splinting and setting are standard solutions, more severe fractures may require surgical intervention and medical device implants for continued stability.