There are three types of bone fracture:
- Closed fracture: This happens when the bone breaks but does not pierce through the skin. It is harder to diagnose this kind of broken bone. You will need an x-ray to confirm.
- Open fracture (or compound fracture): This occurs when the broken bone pierces through the skin. As the skin has been punctured, there is more risk of infection.
- Displaced fracture: This occurs when the bone moves out of alignment.