Broken leg

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention

Definition

A broken leg (leg fracture) is a break or crack in one of the bones in your leg. A broken leg may be as simple as a hairline stress fracture, which is common in runners. Or it may be a severe, shattering break resulting from a serious car accident.

If you or your child has any signs or symptoms of a broken leg, seek immediate medical attention, especially if the break follows a fall or motor vehicle accident. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of a broken leg is critical to complete healing.

The right treatment for you or your child depends on the exact site and severity of the injury. A severely broken leg may require surgery to implant devices into the broken bone to maintain proper alignment during healing. Other injuries may be treated with a cast or splint until they're healed.

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Symptoms