Common fractures in sports. A fracture is a break or crack in the bone. It is usually caused by trauma, osteoporosis, and overuse. Fractures caused by overuse or repetitive motion are known as stress fractures and are common in athletes.

Types of Fractures
There are two main classifications of fractures: compound (open) and simple (closed). A fracture is considered compound when the broken bone has pierced through the soft tissues and the skin, creating an open wound. A simple fracture, on the other hand, has little to no damage to the soft tissues surrounding the bone.

Aside from these two major classifications, there are also other types of fractures:
* Greenstick. An incomplete fracture wherein the bone did not separate completely. This is common in children because their bones are more flexible.
* Spiral. Commonly seen in a twisting injury wherein the break spirals around the bone.
* Transverse. The fracture is a horizontal line across the bone.
* Compression. The bone appears crushed or compressed, making it look flatter. This is usually seen in the spine.
* Oblique. The fracture is a diagonal break across the bone.
* Segmental. A segment of the bone is floating because the same bone is fractured in two places. This is commonly seen in long bone fractures.
* Comminuted. There are three or more fragments of broken bones at the site of impact.
* Stress. Usually caused by repeated movements and actions that increase the pressure on the bones.

Common Fractures in Sports
Stress fractures are most commonly seen in athletes whose sports require repetitive movements such as marathon runners. Fractures are also common in contact sports such as basketball, rugby, and football. The most commonly fractured bones in contact sports are the hands, wrist, collarbone, ankle, feet, and the long bones of the lower extremities.

First Aid Treatment for Fractures
If you suspect a fractured bone, stop whatever you are doing and follow the following guidelines.

* Rest. Rest and avoid moving the injured area unnecessarily, as this is very painful and can make the fracture worse.
* Control the bleeding, in case of a compound fracture. Using a sterile or a clean bandage or a piece of clothing, apply pressure to the wound.
* Ice and immobilization. Apply an ice pack to the injured area to prevent further swelling and relieve pain. Do not apply the ice directly to the skin. Immobilize the injury using a splint. You can use a hard splint, like a padded board or a cardboard box, for long bone fractures and a soft splint, like a folded blanket, towels and a pillow for ankle, wrist, and collarbone fractures.
* Compress. Secure the splint in place using a bandage or a strip of cloth. Do not tie it too tightly, as this can impede blood flow. Do not place the ties directly over the fractured area; they should be above and below the injury.
* Elevate. Once the splint is secured, elevating the injury can help control the bleeding and reduce the swelling.

Lastly,In addition to extreme pain which may make motion of the injured area difficult or impossible, other common symptoms include: swelling and tenderness around the injury; bruising; or a deformed appearance, such as the limb looking “out of place,” or bone that has punctured through the skin.

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