Annual Arm Fractures in US
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How many people break their arm per year ?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.6 million fractures, also known as broken bones, occur in the United States each year. Of these fractures, the arm is one of the most commonly broken body parts. The exact number of arm fractures per year is not reported by the CDC, but it is estimated that at least 1 million arm fractures occur annually in the United States.
Arm fractures can occur in both children and adults and can range from simple fractures, which are relatively easy to treat, to complex fractures that require surgery. The most common causes of arm fractures include falls, sports injuries, and motor vehicle accidents.
Children and adolescents are more likely to sustain arm fractures than adults due to their increased physical activity and risk-taking behavior. Falls are the leading cause of arm fractures in children, with the majority of fractures occurring in the distal radius, which is the bone located at the wrist. Children who participate in sports, such as soccer, basketball, and gymnastics, are also at a higher risk of sustaining arm fractures due to the repetitive nature of these activities and the risk of collisions with other players.
Adults are more likely to sustain arm fractures as a result of falls, with the majority of fractures occurring in the proximal humerus, which is the bone located at the shoulder. Osteoporosis, a condition that causes the bones to become weak and brittle, is a common risk factor for arm fractures in older adults.
Motor vehicle accidents are another leading cause of arm fractures in adults, with the majority of fractures occurring in the distal radius and ulna, which are the bones located at the wrist.
Treatment for arm fractures varies depending on the type and severity of the fracture. Simple fractures, such as a hairline fracture, may be treated with a splint or cast to immobilize the bone and allow it to heal. More complex fractures, such as those that involve multiple bone fragments or displacement, may require surgery to align the bone and hold it in place with plates, screws, or pins.
Physical therapy is also an important part of the recovery process for arm fractures. It helps to regain strength, range of motion and flexibility in the affected limb.
Preventing arm fractures is key to reducing the number of fractures that occur each year. Wearing helmets and other protective gear when participating in sports and other activities can help to reduce the risk of arm fractures. In addition, older adults should talk to their healthcare provider about osteoporosis prevention and treatment, as well as falls prevention strategies.
In conclusion, arm fractures are a common injury, with an estimated 1 million cases occurring annually in the United States. Children and adolescents are more likely to sustain arm fractures due to their increased physical activity and risk-taking behavior, while adults are more likely to sustain arm fractures as a result of falls. Motor vehicle accidents are another leading cause of arm fractures in adults. Proper treatment and prevention strategies, such as wearing protective gear, falls prevention and osteoporosis prevention and treatment can help to reduce the number of arm fractures that occur each year.