But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids

How do broken bones heal?

Sep 6, 2024

In this engaging discussion, Melissa Raddatz, a family nurse practitioner specializing in orthopedics at Duke Health System, dives into the fascinating world of bones. She explains why bones are vital to our structure and support, and how they grow from 270 at birth to 206 in adulthood. Listeners learn about the types of broken bones, the healing process, and the technology behind casts. Melissa also shares insights on why kids are more prone to fractures and the importance of nutrition in maintaining strong bones. Perfect for curious minds!

20:58

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Episode guests

Melissa Raddatz

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Bones provide essential support and mobility for the human body, functioning as a resilient framework for various activities.

The healing process of broken bones involves nutrient supply and callus formation, highlighting the importance of safe practices and nutrition.

Deep dives

The Role of Bones in the Body

Bones are integral to human movement and structure, providing support for the body and enabling mobility. They function much like building blocks, forming a framework that allows for activities such as running and jumping. Unlike animals with exoskeletons that protect their shape from the outside, humans and many other mammals possess an internal skeleton that is surrounded by muscles and skin. This internal structure not only gives shape but also benefits from protective tissues that help prevent injury to the bones.

Intro

3min

The Importance of Bones and Their Structure

2min

The Journey of Bone Growth

5min

Understanding Broken Bones

10min

Understanding Bone Health and Injury Prevention

2min

Why do we have bones? How do they grow–and how do they know when to stop growing? How many do we have in our bodies? And when we break our bones, how do they heal? What do casts do? And how do you know if you’ve broken a bone? Broken bones are a common occurrence in kids. Up to 40% of girls and up to 50% of boys will break a bone in their lifetime. In this episode, we learn about the role of bones in our body and how to deal with a fractured bone with Melissa Raddatz, a family nurse practitioner at Duke Health System in North Carolina. The first part of this episode is all about bones in general, and we shift to broken bones for the second half.

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