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The skeletal system has a unique structure that works together to hold the body and keep it in tact and moving. The skeleton holds the brain in place with the skull. The ribcage keeps the lungs and heart protected. This bony skeleton is divided into two different parts: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton is the central core unit, that consists of the skull, vertebrae, ribs, and sternum. The appendicular skeleton is made up of all the bones of the extremities. Each bone holds a specific contribution to the structure that allows this system of support to be effective. There are 206 bones in an adult human skeleton. Each of the bones have three layers: the Periosteum, the compact bone, and the spongy bone. It consists of bone and connective tissue like cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.

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The bony skeleton is divided into 2 parts: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton is the central core unit, consisting of the skull, vertebrae, ribs, and sternum. The appendicular skeleton comprises the bones of the extremities. The human skeleton consists of 213 bones, of which 126 are part of the appendicular skeleton, 74 are part of the axial skeleton, and 6 are part of the auditory ossicles.

Bone is a solid organ that appears pinkish white externally and deep red internally when in a fresh state.Essentially, bone is of 2 types, compact (or cortical) bone and cancellous (or woven) bone. The relative quantities of compact and cancellous bone vary in different locations, depending on the relative requirements for strength and flexibility, respectively, at a given site.

As the name suggests, compact (cortical) bone is well-packed and densely organized bone. It appears ivorylike and is very strong. This type of bone is mainly found in the diaphyses of long bones. Cancellous (woven) bone, on the other hand, has loosely woven lattices with relatively less dense organization of the bone tissue. Cancellous bone is found in the epiphyses and metaphyses of long bones, among other locations.

Anatomically and structurally, the different types of bone are traditionally grouped as follows:

Long bones - Clavicle, humerus, radius, ulna, metacarpals, femur, tibia and fibula, metatarsals, and phalanges; the metacarpals, metatarsals, and phalanges are sometimes referred to as short long bones

Flat bones - Skull, mandible, scapula, sternum, and ribs

Short bones - Carpal and tarsal bones, patella, and sesamoids Irregular bones - Vertebrae, sacrum, coccyx, and hyoid bone

The long bone itself has different parts, as follows:

Diaphysis - This is the central and cortical shaft of a long bone; the narrowest part of the diaphysis is often referred to as the isthmus of the long bone.

Metaphysis - The diaphysis flares on either side to form the metaphysis, which is essentially cancellous bone

Epiphysis - This lies on either end of the long bone; in the adult, it is the remnant of the growing end of the long bone, whereas in a child, the ends of the long bone possess the growth plate and the epiphyses

Medullary cavity - This is the cavity within the long bone; it contains bone marrow and its constituents

Bone is covered by a membrane called the periosteum. The inner medullary cavity is lined with a membrane called the endosteum.

The periosteum, as described by Gray, has multiple small vessels tethering it to bone; these vessels provide a major part of its blood supply. The periosteum is attached to bone by fine fibers called Sharpey fibers. It constitutes a fibrous connective tissue sheath that surrounds the outer cortical surface of bone, except at joints, where bone is lined by articular cartilage. The periosteum contains blood vessels, nerve fibers, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts. It is thicker in children than in mature adults.

The periosteum is a vital structure in bone function, serving to nourish and protect the underlying cortical bone. This function is especially evident with subcutaneous bones like the tibia: when such bones are exposed and injured, their very survival may depend on the presence or absence of periosteum. Periosteum is essential for appositional growth and remodeling of bone. Because bone resorption typically exceeds bone formation as a person grows older, the medullary canal appears to widen with increasing age.

Images depicting the anatomy of the adult skeleton can be seen below.

Joints

The ends of bones articulate to form mobile (or, sometimes, nonmobile) units termed joints (see the images below). These are essentially the connections between the bony elements of the skeleton. In terms of the type of tissue that bridges them, joints may be described as synovial or fibrous, cartilaginous, or bony.

Synchondroses are cartilaginous joints (eg, the sternocostal joint). Synovial joints are lined by a specialized membrane called the synovial membrane and the articulating ends of the bones are lined by specialized cartilage termed hyaline cartilage. This makes the joint specially suited for mobility. Lubricating synovial fluid is secreted by the synovial membrane (columnar epithelium). This fluid also nourishes the articular cartilage, which has sparse blood supply. Repetitive joint movements in synovial joints allow the synovial fluid to replenish itself and maintain cartilage function. Examples of synovial joints include the knee, hip, elbow, and atlanto-axial joint.

The articular cartilage is itself not innervated.

The ends of long bones that articulate with each other are often flared to form bulbous projections called condyles. These are lined by articular or hyaline cartilage.

Vasculature

Bone derives its blood supply from nutrient arteries, which enter the medullary canal at fixed points in the cortex. A number of apertures may be found on the surface of the bone, many of them representing points where veins exit from the surface of the bone. These apertures are found more often at the metaphyseal ends of the long bones. In the flat bones of the skull, these venous channels are numerous and run within tortuous channels in the diploic tissue.

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skeletal system anatomy in adults overview

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The bony skeleton is divided into 2 parts: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton is the central core unit, consisting of the skull, vertebrae, ribs, and sternum. The appendicular skeleton comprises the bones of the extremities.

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The skeletal system gives the body the shape it has, it allows movement, it makes blood cells, and it provides protection for organs and stores minerals. It keeps all the organs in place from the skull to the pelvic bone. Without the skeleton, the body would not have any shape and just be a puddle of muscle, skin, and organs. It's the body's central framework. The skeleton is required for the body to be most efficiently protected.

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Overview

What is the skeletal system?

The skeletal system is your body's central framework. It consists of bones and connective tissue, including cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. It's also called the musculoskeletal system.

Function

What does the skeletal system do?

The skeletal system has many functions. Besides giving us our human shape and features, it:

Allows movement: Your skeleton supports your body weight to help you stand and move. Joints, connective tissue and muscles work together to make your body parts mobile.

Produces blood cells: Bones contain bone marrow. Red and white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow.

Protects and supports organs: Your skull shields your brain, your ribs protect your heart and lungs, and your backbone protects your spine.

Stores minerals: Bones hold your body's supply of minerals like calcium and vitamin D.

Anatomy

What are the parts of the skeletal system?

The skeletal system is a network of many different parts that work together to help you move. The main part of your skeletal system consists of your bones, hard structures that create your body's framework - the skeleton. There are 206 bones in an adult human skeleton. Each bone has three main layers:

Periosteum: The periosteum is a tough membrane that covers and protects the outside of the bone.

Compact bone: Below the periosteum, compact bone is white, hard, and smooth. It provides structural support and protection.

Spongy bone: The core, inner layer of the bone is softer than compact bone. It has small holes called pores to store marrow.

The other components of your skeletal system include:

Cartilage: This smooth and flexible substance covers the tips of your bones where they meet. It enables bones to move without friction (rubbing against each other). When cartilage wears away, as in arthritis, it can be painful and cause movement problems.

Joints: A joint is where two or more bones in the body come together. There are three different joint types. The types of joints are:

Immovable joints: Immovable joints don't let the bones move at all, like the joints between your skull bones.

Partly movable joints: These joints allow limited movement. The joints in your rib cage are partly movable joints.

Movable joints: Movable joints allow a wide range of motion. Your elbow, shoulder, and knee are movable joints.

Ligaments: Bands of strong connective tissue called ligaments hold bones together.

Tendons: Tendons are bands of tissue that connect the ends of a muscle to your bone.

Conditions and Disorders

What are some common conditions that can affect the skeletal system?

Many conditions can affect the bones, joints, and tissues that make up the skeletal system. Some happen as a result of disease or injury. Others develop due to wear and tear as you get older. Conditions that may affect the skeletal system can include:

Arthritis: Age, injury, and medical conditions such as Lyme disease can lead to arthritis, a painful wearing down of joints.

Fracture: Disease, a tumor, or trauma can put stress on a bone, causing it to break.

Osteosarcoma: Cancer that forms in the bones can cause tumors that may weaken and break bones.

Osteoporosis: Bone loss caused by not getting enough calcium can lead to fragile and brittle bones, known as osteoporosis.

Sprains and tears: Age, disease and trauma can cause connective tissue to overstretch and tear.

Care

How can I keep my skeletal system healthy?

To keep your skeletal system strong and healthy, you should:

Get plenty of vitamin D and calcium in your diet (try milk, yogurt or almonds) to keep bones strong.

Drink plenty of water to help keep tissues healthy.

Exercise regularly to strengthen bones and joints.

Stay at a healthy weight to avoid putting extra pressure on your bones and cartilage.

Wear protective gear during contact sports such as football and hockey.

Be cautious on stairs to avoid falls.

What happens when you break a bone?

Your healthcare provider will classify a fracture based on the way the bone breaks. Types of fractures include:

Stable (closed): The ends of the broken bones line up.

Stress fracture: Overuse causes a crack in the bone.

Open (compound): The broken bone breaks the skin.

If you break a bone, you'll need an imaging test called an X-ray so your doctor can identify the type of fracture. Depending on the severity of the break, you'll need to immobilize it (prevent it from moving) in a cast or brace for three to eight weeks. Broken bones can take several months to heal completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I call my healthcare provider about an issue with my skeletal system?

Call your healthcare provider if pain, swelling, or stiffness in your bones or joints lasts more than a few days or interferes with your daily activities. Orthopedic doctors specialize in the skeletal system. These doctors can help you manage issues with:

Medical treatment, such as treating a fracture.

Lifestyle changes, such as exercise.

Medications like ibuprofen to relieve pain or Fosamax® (alendronic acid) to prevent bone loss.

If you suspect you may have broken a bone, go to the emergency room or see your healthcare provider. You'll need treatment to make sure it heals properly.

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The skeletal system is your body's central framework. It consists of bones and connective tissue, including cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. It's also called the musculoskeletal system. The skeletal system has many functions. Besides giving us our human shape and features, it: Allows movement: Your skeleton supports your body weight to help you stand and move.

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A disorder that is related to the skeletal system is when someone gets a fracture on one of their bones. Fractures occur when disease, a tumor, or trauma can put stress on a bone, causing it to break. Fractures are common in the wrist, ankle, and hip. Treatment for fractures includes immobilizing the bone with a cast or even having to surgically insert metal rod to hold the bone together. If the fracture is very intense, it sometimes requires surgical traction to fix or help it heal better.

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Bones

A broken bone or bone fracture occurs when a force exerted against a bone is stronger than the bone can bear. This disturbs the structure and strength of the bone, and leads to pain, loss of function and sometimes bleeding and injury around the site.

Our skeleton is made up of . Bones are a type of connective tissue, reinforced with and bone cells. Bones have a softer centre, called , where blood cells are made. The main functions of our skeleton are supporting our body, enabling movement and protecting our internal organs.

There are different types of bone fractures. Some are more severe than others, depending on the strength and direction of the force, the particular bone involved, and the person's age and general health. Common bone fractures include:

wrist

ankle

hip - hip fractures occur most often in older people.

Broken bones take around 4 to 8 weeks to heal, depending on the age and health of the person and the type of break.

Causes of bone fractures

Causes of bone fractures can include:

traumatic incidents such as sporting injuries, vehicle accidents and falls

conditions such as and some types of that cause bones to fracture more easily, meaning even minor trauma and falls can become serious.

Symptoms of bone fractures

Fractures are different from other injuries to the skeleton such as dislocations, although in some cases it can be hard to tell them apart. Sometimes, a person may have more than one type of injury. If in doubt, treat the injury as if it is a fracture.

The symptoms of a fracture depend on the particular bone and the severity of the injury, but may include:

Types of bone fracture

Different types of fracture include:

Closed (simple) fracture - the broken bone has not pierced the skin.

Open (compound) fracture - the broken bone juts out through the skin, or a wound leads to the fracture site. Infection and external bleeding are more likely.

Greenstick fracture - a small, slender crack in the bone. This can occur in children, because their bones are more flexible that an adult's bones.

Hairline fracture - the most common form is a stress fracture, often occurring in the foot or lower leg as a result of repeated stress from activities such as .

Complicated fracture - structures surrounding the fracture are injured. There may be damage to the veins, arteries or nerves, and there may also be injury to the lining of the bone (the periosteum).

Comminuted fracture - the bone is shattered into small pieces. This type of complicated fracture tends to heal more slowly.

Avulsion fracture - muscles are anchored to bone with tendons, a type of connective tissue. Powerful muscle contractions can wrench the tendon free and pull out pieces of bone. This type of fracture is more common in the knee and shoulder joints.

Compression fracture - occurs when 2 bones are forced against each other. The bones of the spine, called vertebrae, can have this type of fracture. Older people, particularly those with osteoporosis, are at higher risk.

Not all fractures are of a person's arm or leg. Trauma to the head, chest, spine or pelvis can fracture bones such as the skull and . These fractures are further complicated by the underlying body structure that the bone normally protects.

Some of these fractures can be very difficult to manage using first-aid principles only, as they may represent life-threatening injuries. Always seek emergency assistance if you suspect this type of fracture.

Complications of bone fractures

Other problems caused by bone fracture can include:

Blood loss - bones have a rich blood supply. A bad break can make you lose a large amount of blood.

Injuries to organs, tissues or surrounding structures - for example the brain can be damaged by a skull fracture. Chest organs can be injured if a rib breaks.

Stunted growth of the bone - if a child's long bone breaks close to the joint where the growth plates are found.

First aid for bone fractures

Good first-aid care of fractures is important. Moving the broken bones can increase pain and bleeding and can damage tissues around the injury. This can lead to complications in the repair and healing of the injury later on.

First aid for fractures is all about immobilising (limiting movement of) the injured area. Splints can be used for this. Control any external bleeding.

Complicated breaks where a limb is very deformed may need to be realigned before splinting - only paramedics or medical staff should do this.

Fractures of the head or body such as skull, ribs and pelvis are all serious and should be managed by paramedics.

If you suspect a bone fracture, you should:

Keep the person still - do not move them unless there is an immediate danger, especially if you suspect fracture of the skull, spine, ribs, pelvis or upper leg.

Attend to any bleeding wounds first. Stop the bleeding by pressing firmly on the site with a clean dressing. If a bone is protruding, apply pressure around the edges of the wound.

If bleeding is controlled, keep the wound covered with a clean dressing.

Never try to straighten broken bones.

For a limb fracture, provide support and comfort such as a pillow under the lower leg or forearm. However, do not cause further pain or unnecessary movement of the broken bone.

Apply a splint to support the limb. Splints do not have to be professionally manufactured. Items like wooden boards and folded magazines can work for some fractures. You should immobilise the limb above and below the fracture.

Use a sling to support an arm or collarbone fracture.

Raise the fractured area if possible and apply a cold pack to reduce swelling and pain.

Stop the person from eating or drinking anything until they are seen by a health care professional in case they need surgery.

In an emergency, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance.

Diagnosis of bone fractures

Doctors can diagnose bone fractures with . They may also use (computed tomography) and (magnetic resonance imaging).

Treatment of bone fractures

Broken bones heal by themselves - the aim of medical treatment is to make sure the pieces of bone are lined up correctly. The bone needs to recover fully in strength, movement and sensitivity. Some complicated fractures may need [ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/surg... ] or surgical traction (or both).

Depending on where the fracture is and how severe, treatment may include:

splints - to stop movement of the broken limb

braces - to support the bone

- to provide support and immobilise the bone

traction - a less common option

surgically inserted metal rods or plates - to hold the bone pieces together

pain relief - to reduce pain.

Operation procedure for bone fractures

A cast made from plaster of Paris is one of the most common ways of immobilising a limb. This cast is made from a preparation of gypsum that sets hard when water is added. Depending on the location and severity of the fracture, the operation procedures can include:

Closed or simple fractures - the 2 ends of the broken bone are lined up and held in place. The limb is thoroughly bandaged, then the wet plaster is applied. Sometimes, once the plaster is dry, the cast is split into 2 and the 2 halves are re-bandaged on the outside. This allows for any swelling that may occur.

Open or compound fractures - these are thoroughly cleaned in the operating room to remove debris before being set, because a broken bone exposed to the open air may become infected.

Long bones - long bones such as the bone of the thigh (femur) are difficult to keep aligned. In adults these are often treated by internal nailing. A child may need traction for a couple of days before setting the bone in a cast. Once the 2 ends of bone start to show signs of healing, the leg and hip joint are immobilised in plaster of Paris. In other cases, pins are inserted above and below the fracture and secured to an external frame or 'fixator'. This is done under a general anaesthetic.

After surgery, your doctor will check that you have full feeling in the area. For example, if you have a broken arm in plaster, they may ask you to wiggle your fingers. They will also check your limb for tingling, pallor (pale colour) or coolness. These tests check whether the splint is affecting your limb's nerve and blood supply. The injured part is kept as still as possible in the first few days.

Nurses will offer you pain-relieving medication. They will determine the difference between the pain of your fracture and any pain that could be caused by the splint, traction, plaster cast, poor alignment of the limb or swelling of the limb.

Healing process for bone fractures

Blood clots that form on the broken ends of bone are the start of the healing process. Over about 5 weeks, the body joins the 2 bone portions together with a combination of fibrous cells and cartilage.

This temporary bone (callus) is not as strong as real bone. It can break easily until it is slowly replaced with real bone. For this reason the doctor may remove your cast or splint after a few weeks, but you still need to treat the bone with care for at least one more month.

Other treatments for bone fractures

Some bones, such as the collarbone or bones of the toes, are immobilised with a sling or splint (instead of plastered) and rested for about 2 months.

Complications of bone fractures

Possible complications of a bone fracture may include:

poor alignment of the limb

infection

wrongly fitted plaster cast (for example, too tight or too loose).

Self-care after a bone fracture

Follow your doctor's advice, but general suggestions include:

Until the cast has set properly, avoid direct heat such as hot water bottles.

Rest the limb as much as possible.

Use the techniques shown to you by nurses to walk or manage day-to-day activities. For example, you risk further injury if you use crutches incorrectly.

Avoid any lifting or driving until the fracture has healed.

If the skin under the cast is itchy, don't poke anything between the cast and your limb (such as a coat hanger or pencil). Instead, use a hairdryer to blow cool air into the cast.

Don't get your cast wet, as wet plaster becomes soft and does not provide the necessary support. Wet plaster can also irritate your skin. When showering, wrap the cast in a plastic bag and tape it directly to your skin, to keep the area watertight.

See your doctor immediately if you have swelling, blueness or loss of movement of the fingers or toes, pins and needles, numbness or increased pain.

Long-term outlook after a bone fracture

In most cases, your cast will be removed after a few weeks but you must treat the limb with care for at least the next month or so. Leg fractures will take several months to heal. The weaker, temporary bone (callus) is still being replaced by real bone and can be easily injured.

Your doctor may take more x-rays to check on the bone's healing progress.

Unlike skin, broken bones heal without forming scar tissue. But immobilised muscles tend to weaken and wither. You may need rehabilitation, including strengthening exercises, for a short time.

Where to get help

In an emergency, always call triple zero (000)

Your

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A broken bone or bone fracture occurs when a force exerted against a bone is stronger than the bone can bear. This disturbs the structure and strength of the bone, and leads to pain, loss of function and sometimes bleeding and injury around the site. Our skeleton is made up of .

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One of the careers that work with the skeletal system is an Orthopedic surgeon. Orthopedic surgeons examine, diagnose, and treat diseases and injuries that have to do with the skeletal system. They will prescribe a course of treatment for patients that have injuries, disorders, or malformations. They also perform surgery if required. The schooling, experience, and licensing required for this career are a completion of a residency in orthopedic surgery in an ACGME approved program, a current BC/BE in orthopedic surgery (American Board of Orthopedic Surgery), a valid state medical license as MD or DO, a valid DEA certificate, and 2 years’ experience working full-time as an orthopedic surgeon. The work setting of orthopedic surgeons can work in the academic setting (universities), be employed by a hospital system or medical group, or be in private practice. The average salary for an orthopedic surgeon in the US is 306,220 USD as of 2021.

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This orthopedic surgeon job description sample can give your posting a boost that will attract the candidates with the highest qualifications. To get the most attention from prospective physicians, simply maintain the organization and structure of this outline and update it with the specifics of the exact duties and responsibilities of your facility's open position. You can also take a look at our orthopedic surgeon job listings for more ideas to add to your posting.

Orthopedic Surgeon

[Intro paragraph] Hospitals and clinics looking for the best surgeons begin by introducing themselves with two or three sentences that tell job seekers a few things that make their medical facility unique and the value they bring to new employees. Take this opportunity to really make your hospital or surgery center shine, and set yourself apart from competing job postings.
Orthopedic Surgeon Job Responsibilities:

Examines, diagnoses, and treats diseases and injuries to the musculoskeletal system.

Prescribes course of treatment for patients with injuries, disorders, or malformations and performs required surgery.

Conducts and supervises direct patient care, including some non-surgical treatment options.

Plans and executes disease prevention and health promotion programs.

Exercises command of medical units as provided by law and regulations.

Conduct medical research on new injuries or diseases, and conducts, supervises, and participates in medical education and training of other medical personnel.

Participates in on-call schedule in a responsive and timely manner.

Provides outpatient consultation and hospital consultation services.

Maintains CME units based on the requirements of the specifying Board.

Maintains historical records by documenting symptoms, medications, and treatment events and writing summaries.

Enhances department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests and exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.

[Work Hours & Benefits] Prospective surgeons will also want details on your working hours and benefits, like on-call schedule, patient loads, or any travel requirements. This is also the perfect time to highlight unique office perks and benefits like tuition or conference sponsorship, continuing education credits, or sabbatical and paid parental leave options.
Orthopedic Surgeon Qualifications / Skills:

Documentation skills

Analyzing information

Decision-making

Listening

Verbal communication

Patient services

Building relationships

Discretion

Bedside manner

Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:

Completion of a residency in orthopedic surgery in an ACGME approved program

Current BC/BE in orthopedic surgery (American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery)

Valid state medical license as MD or DO

Valid DEA certificate

2 years' experience working full-time as an orthopedic surgeon

[Call to Action] The goal of every job posting is to turn potential applicants into actual applicants. But how do you do it? With a well-crafted call to action that lets surgeons know exactly how to get in touch. Provide details about submitting an application, resume, and supporting documents, or you can simply tell them to click the "apply" button at the top of the posting.

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Orthopedic Surgeon Job Description Template

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This orthopedic surgeon job description sample can give your posting a boost that will attract the candidates with the highest qualifications. To get the most attention from prospective physicians, simply maintain the organization and structure of this outline and update it with the specifics of the exact duties and responsibilities of your facility's open position.

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My cousin fractured his pinky playing football. The ball jammed his pinky, causing it to bend into what looked like a 90 degree angle and it was clear that something was wrong. He was taken to the doctor and most likely seen by an orthopedic specialist and surgeon. He was given a cast so that it could heal. Thankfully, there was no need for surgery, but the recovery process was hard because he couldn't play football or do much with his hand.

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Here are 5 of the different kinds of fractures you could get. Transverse, stress, oblique, greenstick, and comminuted.