
What is a Leg Fracture?
A leg fracture, sometimes called a broken or fractured leg, is a break in any of the bones that make up your leg, including the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone), and fibula (calf bone). Understanding these injuries is crucial for proper treatment and recovery.
Types of Leg Fractures
Femoral Fractures
- Breaks in the thigh bone (femur), often due to high-impact trauma.
- May involve the femoral head, shaft, or distal end.
Tibial Fractures
- Fractures of the shinbone (tibia), the larger of the two lower leg bones.
- Common from direct blows or twisting injuries.
Fibular Fractures
- Breaks in the smaller, thinner bone in the lower leg (fibula).
- Often occur alongside tibial fractures or ankle injuries.
Stress Fractures
- Tiny cracks in bones due to repetitive stress or overuse, often in runners or athletes.
- Common in the tibia and foot bones.
Compound Fractures
- Also known as open fractures, where the broken bone pierces through the skin.
- With an open fracture, there is a high risk of infection, and therefore it requires immediate medical attention.
Hairline Fractures
- Minor cracks in the bone, often caused by repetitive activity or overuse.
- Typically stable and less severe than full fractures.
How Common Are Leg Fractures?
Leg fractures are relatively common injuries, with their incidence varying across different demographics and activities. Here’s an overview based on available statistics:
General Incidence:
- A study reported an overall fracture incidence of approximately 1,229 per 100,000 individuals annually, equating to a 1.2% yearly fracture rate.
Age and Gender Differences:
- Children and Adolescents: Fracture rates are higher in boys, with an annual incidence ranging from 162 to 257 per 10,000 person-years, compared to 103 to 165 per 10,000 person-years in girls.
- Adults: Fracture incidence increases with age, peaking in individuals aged 85 and older. Women in this age group experience rates up to 15,415 per 100,000 person-years, while men have rates around 9,302 per 100,000 person-years.
Specific Types of Leg Fractures:
- Hip Fractures: Predominantly occur in older adults, especially women. By 2050, an estimated six million hip fracture cases are anticipated worldwide.
- Stress Fractures are common among athletes and military recruits, with annual incidence rates ranging from 5% to 30%. Rates are dependent on the sport and other risk factors. Women and highly active individuals are at higher risk.
Impact of Physical Activity:
- Regular physical activity, including lighter-intensity exercises, helps reduce the risk of fractures in older women. Conversely, high-intensity activities without proper conditioning can increase fracture risk.
These statistics highlight the prevalence of leg fractures across various demographics and underscore the importance of preventive measures, especially among high-risk groups.
Symptoms and Causes
What Causes Leg Fractures?
High-Impact Trauma:
- Sudden and forceful impact, such as during collisions or extreme pressure on the leg, can result in severe fractures.
- Common in situations like industrial accidents or heavy object falls.
Sports Injuries:
- Intense physical activity, improper technique, or accidents during sports like football, skiing, or basketball can cause fractures.
- These often include stress fractures or breaks from twisting forces.
Vehicle Accidents:
- A leading cause of leg fractures, particularly femoral and tibial fractures.
- The high velocity and force in crashes contribute to complex and often open fractures.
Falls:
- Common among older adults with weaker bones (osteoporosis).
- Depending on the height and manner of the fall, it can lead to hip, femur, or tibia fractures.
Repetitive Stress:
- Overuse of the leg in activities like running or marching can lead to tiny cracks, called stress fractures.
- Common in athletes and military personnel.
These causes often depend on factors like age, activity level, and overall bone health.

Leg Fracture Risk Factors
Age-Related Factors:
- Children and adolescents are at risk due to high activity levels and sports participation.
- Older adults face higher risks due to bone fragility, slower reflexes, and increased likelihood of falls.
Osteoporosis:
- Osteoporosis weakens bones, therefore making them more prone to fractures even from minor trauma.
- Particularly common in postmenopausal women and older people.
Athletic Activities:
- High-impact sports, such as football, running, or gymnastics, increase the risk of stress fractures or traumatic breaks.
- Inadequate conditioning, overtraining, or poor technique are contributing factors.
Occupational Hazards:
- Jobs involving heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or high-risk environments (e.g., construction, mining) can lead to fractures.
- Falls from heights or accidents with machinery are common causes.
Medical Conditions Affecting Bone Density:
- Disorders like osteogenesis imperfecta, rheumatoid arthritis, or vitamin D deficiency reduce bone strength.
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes may also impair bone healing, increasing fracture risks.
Understanding these risk factors helps in prevention and targeted care for vulnerable groups.
Complications of Leg Fractures
Non-union or Delayed Healing:
- The bone fails to heal properly or takes longer than usual, leading to persistent pain and reduced functionality.
- Common in cases with inadequate immobilisation, poor blood supply, or smoking.
Infection:
- It is more likely in compound (open) fractures where the bone pierces the skin.
- It can lead to osteomyelitis, a serious bone infection requiring prolonged treatment.
Blood Vessel or Nerve Damage:
- Fragments of broken bone can injure nearby blood vessels or nerves, causing numbness, weakness, or circulatory issues.
- Severe cases may result in long-term disability if not promptly addressed.
Compartment Syndrome:
- Increased pressure in the muscle compartments due to swelling or bleeding.
- Compartment Syndrome is a serious medical emergency, as it can lead to tissue death and requires urgent surgical intervention (fasciotomy).
Post-Traumatic Arthritis:
- Damage to joint surfaces during a fracture can lead to wear-and-tear arthritis over time.
- Causes chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility.
Proper treatment and follow-up care are crucial to minimise these complications. Access Ortho staff are skilled in caring for leg fractures and will provide urgent specialist care to minimise complications.
Diagnosis and Tests
How Are Leg Fractures Diagnosed?
Diagnostic Process and Initial Examination Procedures:
- History Taking: The doctor asks about the cause of the injury, symptoms, and medical history.
- Physical Examination: The injured leg is checked for swelling, deformity, bruising, tenderness, or signs of nerve or blood vessel damage, such as numbness or pale skin.
- Stability and Range of Motion: Gentle manipulation assesses the stability of the bone and joint involvement.
- Observation for Open Fractures: Open wounds or bone protrusions are inspected to identify compound fractures. If you have an open or compound fracture, you must attend your nearest Hospital Emergency Department immediately.
Tests Used to Diagnose Leg Fractures
Physical Examination:
- The initial evaluation identifies visible signs of fracture, pain points, and any abnormal angulation or shortening of the leg.
- During the examination, circulation, sensation, and motor function are also assessed.
X-Rays:
- Primary Diagnostic Tool: Provides clear images of bones to identify breaks, displacement, or misalignment.
- Quick and Accessible: Most fractures are diagnosed with this method.
CT Scans (Computed Tomography):
- Used for complex fractures, such as those involving joints or multiple bone fragments.
- Offers detailed cross-sectional images for better evaluation of severe injuries.
MRI Scans (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):
- Detects soft tissue damage (ligaments, tendons, or muscles) associated with fractures.
- Useful for identifying stress fractures not visible on X-rays.
Bone Scans:
- It involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material to detect subtle fractures, especially stress fractures, or conditions like bone infections.
- Typically used when other imaging tests do not provide a clear diagnosis.
Diagnosing a leg fracture combines a thorough physical examination with imaging tests, starting with X-rays. Advanced imaging like CT, MRI, or bone scans are used for more detailed evaluation when needed, ensuring an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. Access Ortho staff are skilled in assessing leg fractures and will refer for any required radiology before formulating a treatment plan.

Special Considerations
Certain populations and situations require special consideration regarding leg fractures. The team at Access Ortho is trained in the care of orthopaedic injuries and will take these considerations into account.
Pediatric Leg Fractures:
- Children’s bones are still growing, making them more flexible and less likely to break completely (greenstick fractures).
- Growth plate fractures require careful management to prevent growth disturbances.
- Healing is generally faster than in adults, but improper alignment can impact long-term development.
Geriatric Fractures:
- Common in older adults due to reduced bone density (osteoporosis) and higher fall risk.
- Fragility fractures, such as hip or femoral fractures, can significantly impact mobility and independence.
- Slower healing rates and higher risk of complications, including blood clots and infections, are notable concerns.
Athletic Injuries:
- High-impact or repetitive stress activities can lead to fractures, including stress fractures or traumatic breaks.
- Athletes often require tailored treatment to ensure complete recovery while maintaining future performance levels.
- Rehabilitation focuses on regaining strength, mobility, and preventing re-injury.
Multiple Fractures:
- Simultaneous breaks in more than one bone, often from severe trauma like car accidents.
- Require coordinated care to address stabilisation, surgical needs, and potential blood loss or organ damage.
- Recovery is typically prolonged and may involve extensive physiotherapy.
Complex Fractures:
- Involve multiple bone fragments, joint surfaces, or surrounding soft tissue damage.
- May require advanced imaging, surgical intervention (e.g., fixation with plates and screws), and long-term rehabilitation.
- High risk of complications like infection, non-union, or post-traumatic arthritis.
Proper assessment and targeted treatment are critical to managing these fractures and ensuring the best possible recovery outcomes. Access Ortho are specialists in fracture care and offer rapid appointments.
Management and Treatment
How Are Leg Fractures Treated?
Emergency Care:
- Initial treatment focuses on stabilising the patient, controlling bleeding, and immobilising the injured leg.
- Severe fractures may require splints or traction during transportation to a medical facility.
Immobilisation Techniques:
- Casts and Splints: Used to hold the bone in place while it heals, especially for simple fractures.
- Traction: Applies steady pressure to realign bones in certain fracture types.
Surgical Options:
- Required for complex or displaced fractures, open fractures, or those involving joints.
- Techniques include internal fixation (plates, screws, rods) or external fixation (stabilising devices outside the skin).
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation for minor fractures.
- Bracing or functional orthoses may be used for stable fractures to allow limited movement.
Pain Management:
- Medications such as NSAIDs or opioids (in severe cases) are used to manage pain.
- Local anaesthetics or nerve blocks may be administered for immediate relief during treatment.
Rehabilitation Protocols:
- Physiotherapy begins once the bone starts healing to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility.
- Gradual weight-bearing exercises are introduced to ensure a safe return to normal activities.
Summary:
Treatment of leg fractures involves a combination of emergency care, stabilisation, and surgical or non-surgical methods. Pain management and tailored rehabilitation are essential for complete recovery. The orthopaedic team at Access Ortho provides specialist care for leg fractures and will guide you in the recommended treatment for your fracture.
Prevention
How Can I Prevent Leg Fractures?
- Bone Health Maintenance: Eat a calcium-rich diet, get enough vitamin D, and engage in weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones.
- Safety Measures: Avoid risky behaviours and ensure safe environments at work and home to reduce accident risks.
- Sports Preparation: Warm up properly, condition muscles, and avoid overtraining to prevent stress fractures.
- Fall Prevention: Use handrails, wear non-slip footwear, and keep pathways clear, especially for older adults.
- Protective Equipment: Use appropriate gear, like shin guards or padding, during sports or high-risk activities.
Simple lifestyle changes and precautions can significantly reduce the risk of leg fractures.
Outlook / Prognosis
What to Expect with a Leg Fracture
A leg fracture is a significant injury, but most individuals can expect a successful recovery with proper care and treatment. The healing process involves several stages, including initial healing, rehabilitation, and a gradual return to normal activities. The timeline and outcomes depend on the type of fracture, as well as individual considerations such as patient age and overall health.
Recovery Timeline for Leg Fractures
The following is a guide only and will change significantly depending on the type, location and extent of your injury. You should discuss your recovery timeline with your medical team.
Initial Healing Phase (6–12 Weeks)
- Focus: The primary goal during this phase is stabilising the fracture using casts, splints, or surgical intervention.
- What to Expect: Swelling, bruising, and pain are common, and weight-bearing is generally limited. The bone begins to heal, but activity must be restricted to prevent further injury.
Rehabilitation Period (3–6 Months)
- Focus: Physiotherapy to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility.
- What to Expect: Gradual reintroduction of weight-bearing activities and range-of-motion exercises. The rehabilitation phase is crucial for regaining full function and reducing the risk of long-term disability.
Return to Activities (6–12 Months)
- Focus: Resuming regular daily activities, with athletes potentially needing additional time for conditioning.
- What to Expect: Many individuals can return to light activities within a few months, while more intense activities or sports may require longer recovery time, especially after complex fractures.
Long-Term Considerations
- Focus: Full bone remodelling can take up to two years.
- What to Expect: Some individuals may experience residual stiffness, weakness, or discomfort. Long-term complications such as chronic pain or post-traumatic arthritis can occur, particularly in cases of complex fractures. Continued attention to bone health and lifestyle changes may be needed for ongoing recovery and fracture prevention.
Summary
Recovery from a leg fracture involves multiple phases, starting with the initial healing of the bone, followed by rehabilitation to restore function and then a gradual return to normal activities. Long-term considerations include full recovery of bone strength and managing any lasting effects, such as stiffness or pain. The full process can take anywhere from 6 months to a year or longer, depending on the injury’s severity and individual factors.
Fracture Clinic Information
When Should I Go to a Fracture Clinic?
A fracture clinic provides specialised care for individuals with broken bones. A public fracture clinic requires a referral from your GP or emergency department. Access Ortho is a private fracture clinic offering an alternative to your GP or an emergency department. You should consider going to a fracture clinic such as Access Ortho for specialist orthopaedic care if:
- Suspected Fracture: If you have concerns that you may have a fracture, a visit to a private fracture clinic such as Access Ortho will ensure you receive a thorough assessment of your injury and that a specialist orthopaedic team establishes a treatment plan.
- Known Fracture: If you have seen another medical provider and have a known fracture, Access Ortho can provide specialist orthopaedic advice and follow-up care.
- Non-Union or Delayed Healing: If your fracture isn’t healing as expected or shows signs of non-union, a fracture clinic such as Access Ortho provides access to specialist Orthopaedic surgeons who can provide further information, order additional diagnostic tests and offer specialised treatment.
What is a Fracture Clinic?
A fracture clinic is a specialised healthcare facility designed to diagnose, treat, and provide follow-up orthopaedic care for individuals with bone fractures and other musculoskeletal injuries. Fracture Clinics offer expert care from orthopaedic specialists and provide a comprehensive range of services, including assessment, referral for imaging, advice on surgical treatment and conservative care, and follow-up appointments.
Access Ortho Specific Services:
At Access Ortho, a clinic that focuses on orthopaedic care, you can expect:
- Personalised Orthopaedic Care: Experts will assess your injury, offer detailed treatment plans, and recommend surgery if necessary. The staff at Access Ortho are trained in Orthopaedic Care. Unlike in Urgent Care or Emergency Departments, where staff are trained in all illnesses and injuries, at Access Ortho, you see staff who specialise in orthopaedics, ensuring high-quality fracture care.
- Advanced Imaging Technology: Access Ortho will refer for the correct radiology scans, such as X-rays and MRI, to understand the fracture’s severity.
- Non-Surgical Treatments: Access Ortho provides casts, splints, and other conservative options, as well as regular monitoring through follow-up appointments for fractures that can heal with immobilisation or splinting.
- Surgical Care: If you require surgical care, the Orthopaedic Staff at Access Ortho will be able to discuss your options and help you find a surgeon who is available for your surgery. This will minimise waiting times and ensure you get the right care as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a leg fracture to heal?
Healing time for a leg fracture ranges from 6 to 12 weeks; this will change depending on the type and severity of the fracture. Complex fractures or fractures involving joints may take longer. Full bone remodelling can take up to two years.
Will I need surgery for my leg fracture?
Not all leg fractures require surgery. Simple fractures can usually heal with immobilisation, while complex or displaced fractures, or those involving joints, may require surgery to stabilise and realign the bones. The team at Access Ortho will guide you on the need for surgery vs conservative management.
Can I walk on a fractured leg?
Walking on a fractured leg may or may not be advisable, depending on the fracture. It is typically not advised to walk on an unstable or displaced fracture. Your healthcare provider will advise when it’s safe to begin weight-bearing activities, typically after the initial healing phase.
What’s the difference between a simple and compound fracture?
- Simple Fracture (Closed): The bone breaks but does not pierce the skin.
- Compound Fracture (Open): The bone breaks and punctures the skin, which carries a higher risk of infection and requires more immediate medical attention.
How do I know if my leg is broken or just bruised?
Symptoms of a broken leg include severe pain, swelling, deformity, inability to move the leg normally, and sometimes visible bone protrusion. Bruising is also common in both cases. An X-ray is necessary to confirm whether the leg is broken.
When can I return to work after a leg fracture?
The return-to-work timeline depends on the severity of the fracture and the demands of your job. Light desk work may be possible after 1-4 weeks, while jobs requiring standing, walking, or heavy lifting may require 6-12 weeks or longer.
What type of cast or brace will I need?
The type of cast or brace depends on the fracture’s location and severity. A standard plaster or fibreglass cast is often used for simple fractures, while a brace or external fixation might be required for more complex fractures or after surgery.
How can I manage pain from a leg fracture at home?
Simple pain relievers such as ibuprofen or panadol may be taken to help manage pain. Elevating the leg, applying ice, and ensuring the leg is properly immobilised will also reduce pain and swelling. Always follow your doctor’s advice for pain management.
What exercises are safe during recovery?
Gentle range-of-motion exercises and non-weight-bearing exercises (e.g., swimming or stationary cycling) are typically safe in the early stages of recovery. As healing progresses, weight-bearing exercises and strengthening activities will be gradually introduced under the guidance of your physiotherapist. Always discuss any exercise plans with your medical team.
Will I need physiotherapy after my fracture heals?
Physiotherapy is often recommended to restore strength, mobility, and function to the affected leg after the fracture heals. A tailored rehabilitation program will help prevent stiffness and weakness and improve overall recovery. This will dep
Can osteoporosis increase my risk of leg fractures?
Yes, osteoporosis weakens bones, making them more prone to fractures, even from minor trauma. If you have osteoporosis, it’s important to take steps to manage the condition and prevent fractures. You should talk to your GP about your diet, exercise, and the role medication may play.
What are the signs of complications during healing?
Signs of complications include severe pain, worsening swelling, fever (which could indicate infection), difficulty moving the leg, or a visible deformity. If you notice any of these symptoms, we advise you to seek medical attention immediately.