Which fracture occurs when the bone is pressed together (compressed) on itself?

• A. Comminuted fracture
• B. Closed fracture
• C. Compound fracture
• D. Compression fracture

Answer: (D)

Compression fractures occur when the bone is pressed together on itself, collapsing along its axis. This mechanism is most common in the spine, where an axial load—such as a fall, heavy lifting, or weakened bone from osteoporosis—causes vertebral bodies to lose height and become wedge-shaped. On imaging, you typically see a reduction in vertebral height and sometimes kyphotic deformity. This is distinct from a comminuted fracture, where the bone breaks into multiple pieces; a closed fracture, which simply means the skin isn’t broken; and a compound (open) fracture, where the bone punctures the skin. Compression fracture specifically describes the crushing of the bone itself. Treatment varies by location and severity and may include pain control, bracing, osteoporosis management, and sometimes procedures to stabilize the bone.