A pediatric fracture refers to a break or crack in a child’s bone. Children’s bones differ from those of adults in that they are still growing and are more flexible, which can affect how fractures occur, as well as how they heal.
While some fractures in children are relatively minor, others can be more complicated, depending on the location and the type of break. Let’s take a look at the different types of pediatric fractures, how to prevent them, and what to do when they occur is important for ensuring proper care and recovery.
Common Types of Pediatric Fractures and Their Causes
There are several types of fractures that are particularly common in children due to the nature of their bones and their active lifestyles — greenstick fractures, buckle (or torus) fractures, growth plate fractures, complete fractures, and spiral fractures.
Greenstick Fracture
This occurs when a bone bends and cracks without breaking all the way through. Greenstick fractures are more likely in children because their bones are more flexible than those of adults.
Buckle (or Torus) Fracture
This happens when one side of the bone compresses, causing a bulge or raised area at the site of the injury. Buckle fractures are common in the wrists, often resulting from falls where the child tries to catch themselves with outstretched arms.
Growth Plate Fractures
The growth plate is the area of tissue near the ends of long bones that is responsible for bone growth. Because this area is softer and more vulnerable, injuries here can affect future bone development if not treated properly. Growth plate fractures often occur due to sports injuries, falls, or other trauma to the limbs.
Complete and Spiral Fractures
Children are also prone to complete fractures, where the bone breaks entirely into two or more pieces, as well as spiral fractures, which occur when a twisting force causes the bone to break in a spiral pattern. These fractures can result from falls, accidents, or high-impact sports activities.
Strategies for Avoiding Pediatric Fractures
Preventing fractures in children requires a combination of safety measures and supervision. Ensuring that children use appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, knee pads, or wrist guards when participating in sports or activities like biking or skateboarding can greatly reduce the risk of injury.
Encouraging children to follow safety guidelines in sports, including using proper techniques and not overexerting themselves, is also important.
Providing children with a healthy high protein diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is another key preventive measure, as these nutrients are vital for developing strong bones.
Regular physical activity, like weight-bearing exercises, running, and jumping, helps build bone strength, which can reduce the likelihood of fractures. Parents should also ensure that play areas are safe and free from hazards that could lead to falls or other injuries.
What to Do When Your Child Has a Pediatric Fracture
If you think your child has a fracture, seek medical attention as soon as you can. Signs of a fracture include swelling, bruising, pain, or difficulty moving the injured limb. Until you can reach a healthcare provider, immobilizing the injured area and applying ice to reduce swelling can manage discomfort.
Once evaluated by a doctor, your child may undergo imaging tests such as X-rays to confirm the type and severity of the fracture. Treatment will depend on the type of fracture, but common approaches include the use of casts or splints to immobilize the bone while it heals.
In more severe cases, such as displaced fractures, surgery may be necessary to realign the bone.
During the healing process, it is essential to follow the doctor’s instructions regarding rest, activity restrictions, and any physical therapy that may be needed to restore movement and strength to the injured area.
Most pediatric fractures heal well with proper treatment, though regular follow-ups with the doctor are important, especially for fractures involving the growth plate, to ensure that the bone heals correctly.
Pediatric fractures are common, especially for active children, so knowing how to prevent them and what steps to take if they occur can significantly improve recovery. With the right care and precautions, most children recover from fractures and return to their normal lives without long-term complications.