Green Stick Fracture

A Green Stick Fracture is a type of simple fracture in which only one side of the bone is broken while the opposite side is bent. It resembles the breaking of a green tree branch, hence the name. In Green Stick Fractures, the ends of the fractured bone are less likely to displace because part of the bone is still intact.

This type of fracture occurs most often in children because their bones are less rigid and brittle. Treatment for Green Stick Fractures is the same as for other fractures. But Green Stick Fractures may heal faster than other fractures.

Treatment of Green Stick Fracture

Often, Green Stick Fractures may be left alone since children remodel bones well. Occasionally, reduction may be necessary in which case it is best to either break the bone completely, or to manage in a cast with 3 point pressure - above, below and opposite the site of damage.