Which fracture is characterized by multiple fragments and often has difficulty healing?

The comminuted fracture is characterized by the bone being broken into multiple fragments, which can be the result of high-impact trauma or stress. This type of fracture often presents significant challenges in the healing process due to the complexity of the injury. Healing can be complicated for several reasons, including the difficulty in aligning the multiple fragments for proper healing and the potential for inadequate blood supply to some of the fragments. Additionally, the larger the number of fragments, the more complicated the surgical intervention might be if it becomes necessary. Understanding this fracture type is essential in athletic training, as it relates to risk management and rehabilitation strategies following such injuries.