In orthopedics, which would include fractures, acute can refer to how close to the present the onset of some condition is. An acute fracture may be one that occurred in the recent past, anywhere from a moment ago to maybe 3-6 weeks ago depending on the context. A non acute fracture may be of longer standing, some thing that happened in the past. It may refer to a healed fracture or possibly a non healed fracture.

Another meaning of acute refers to the cause of the condition. An acute fracture may occur suddenly as in a fall or other accident. A non acute fracture may occur gradually over some time, as many stress fractures do.

As most fractures are diagnosed through radiographs (X-rays) please consult your medical professional as to the meaning of any specific fractures.