Fractures are categorized into several types.

Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
Updated on March 28, 2025
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In short, fractures can be classified into the following types:

First, based on the integrity of the skin and mucous membrane at the fracture site, it can be classified into closed fractures and open fractures.

Second, based on the shape and degree of the fracture. It can be categorized into oblique fractures, transverse fractures, spiral fractures, comminuted fractures, greenstick fractures, impacted fractures, compression fractures, and bone injuries.

Third, based on the stability of the fracture ends, it can be classified into stable fractures and unstable fractures. Among unstable fractures, these include oblique fractures, spiral fractures, and comminuted fractures. Thus, fracture classification fundamentally falls into these major categories.

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What should I do if I have a fracture?

When a fracture occurs, temporary immobilization is needed to alleviate local pain and prevent further fractures during transfer. If there is an open wound, it should be bandaged and isolated from the external environment to prevent infection. If there are injuries to vital organs, life-saving measures should be administered immediately, followed by treatment of the fracture. Therefore, appropriate immobilization is necessary when a fracture occurs.

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Rib fracture complications

Rib fractures often result from trauma and can involve a single fracture or multiple fractures in one rib. In severe cases, there might be multiple fractures across several ribs, causing a flail chest condition. Rib fractures initially lead to localized bleeding and swelling, making breathing difficult. This situation might also result in increased pleural effusion or hemothorax. In severe cases, it leads to significant breathing difficulties. Therefore, if a rib fracture occurs, it is advisable to visit the thoracic department of a formal hospital for medical consultation.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Does a rib fracture hurt?

The rib area is rich in nerves, and the human body has a total of 24 ribs, so there are more than 20 intercostal nerves. Therefore, the local pain is very obvious after a rib fracture. The pain may become apparent with breathing and movements of the thoracic cage. Sometimes, especially when changing body positions, the pain can be very significant. Occasionally, coughing, sneezing, or performing other actions that increase abdominal pressure can cause marked pain. Thus, the pain from a rib fracture is quite pronounced and very severe.

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Principles of Fracture Treatment

A fracture refers to the disruption of the integrity and continuity of a bone, characterized by local pain, swelling, and limited mobility. In the early stages of a fracture, it is necessary to reposition and immobilize the affected area, and apply cold compresses to reduce local swelling. After the swelling has subsided, the treatment method is chosen based on the degree of displacement of the fracture. Options include internal fixation with open reduction, internal plate fixation of the fracture, or the use of plaster or braces for stabilization. In the case of an open fracture, the exposed wound must be cleaned immediately, and appropriate stabilization should be provided to prevent infection.

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How to exercise for fracture recovery

After the fracture heals, rehabilitation exercises can reduce pain and shorten the healing time of the fracture. The main rehabilitation training methods include physiotherapy such as hot compresses, massage of the fracture site, acupuncture, electrotherapy, and exercises like muscle training of the fracture site, isometric contraction, isotonic contraction, etc. Once the fracture reaches relative stability, further activities like getting out of bed and non-weight bearing exercises at the fracture site can also help accelerate the healing time.