A greenstick fracture is a type of broken bone. A bone cracks on one side only, not all the way through the bone. It is called a "greenstick" fracture because it can look like a branch that has broken and splintered on one side.
Most greenstick fractures happen in kids younger than 10 years old because their bones are softer and more flexible than adult bones.
In teens and adults, the injury may break the bone all the way through. But in children, the bone breaks on one side only.
Greenstick fractures usually happen when a child falls and reaches a hand out to break the fall.
Usually, orthopedic specialists treat this type of fracture with a cast.
Reviewed by: Richard W. Kruse, DO, Susan M. Dubowy, PA-C
Date Reviewed: Jun 1, 2018
