Children possess natural energy with exploratory tendencies as they enjoy performing diverse activities like running, jumping, and climbing. Physical activity is vital for child development, however, it raises the danger of accidental falls and fractures in children.
Parents are concerned about fractures or broken bones as these injuries affect the overall growth and development of the children. Gaining knowledge about fractures, their causes, and treatment methodologies leads to quick and eventful healing processes.
Why Are Fractures More Common in Children?
The bones of children possess distinct features which differ from adults. Children possess flexible and soft bones that are more susceptible to breaking. The cartilage content in a child’s bone structure surpasses that of adult bones, which compromises impact absorption.
Under normal conditions, this elastic structure makes bones vulnerable to bending or breaking when exposed to external pressure. Growth plates [found at the end of a bone] represent weak tissue that makes them susceptible to damage. A growth plate fracture demands special medical attention as it has the potential and affects the growth potential of a bone.
The most common types of pediatric fractures are:
- Wrist Fractures
Children frequently break their wrists upon falling with their hands extended. This type of fracture appears regularly among child patients. Children naturally protect themselves from falls using their hands, thus making their forearm bones (radius and ulna) prone to fractures.
- Clavicle (Collarbone) Fractures
The clavicle is one of the most frequently broken bones in children as it is susceptible to injury during sports activities. A broken collarbone leads to severe pain, swollen tissues, and restricted mobility in the injured area.
- Ankle and Leg Fractures
Participating in running, jumping, and playing sports increases the chances of ankle and leg injuries and fractures. Some bone fractures need simple immobilisation through casting treatment. However, severe cases may require surgical intervention.
- Elbow Fractures
Children usually break their elbows when they fall from playground rides, riding bicycles, and taking part in skateboards. The proper treatment of these injuries becomes important to prevent future joint stiffness from developing.
- Finger and Toe Fractures
It is one of the most common bone fractures in children. Fingers and toes tend to break easily when individuals experience crushing accidents, slam into objects, or participate in sports-related activities. The pain from fractures experienced in smaller bones can be severe enough to need splinting.
How Are Fractures in Children Diagnosed and Treated?
The doctor will examine the injured child following visible symptoms like pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty using the affected limb before performing X-rays or other imaging tests for diagnosis confirmation. The treatment plan depends on the kind and level of fracture severity.
- Immobilisation
The standard treatment method for bone healing requires casts, splints, and braces to maintain bone stability. The time needed for immobilisation treatment depends on the type and extent of the fracture damage.
- Pain Management
The medical team usually suggests using ice therapy, rest, and over-the-counter pain medications to manage swelling and pain.
- Realignment (Reduction)
Doctors need to manually realign fractured bones before placing a cast if the bones have significant misalignment. Doctors perform this treatment method by calling it a closed reduction.
- Surgery (If Necessary)
A complex fracture and multiple breaks requires surgical intervention to achieve proper bone stabilisation through pins, plates, or screws. The best child orthopaedic doctor in Mumbai should be consulted to supervise healing processes and reduce potential complications for such cases.
Preventing Fractures in Children
It is not possible to control all childhood injuries. However, parents can take specific steps to minimize the chances of bone fractures.
- Children should wear suitable protective equipment when participating in sports or outdoor activities to promote safety.
- Children should learn appropriate techniques for falling which reduce the impact of falling on the ground.
- A diet with adequate vitamin D and calcium should be provided to strengthen bones and support healthy growth.
- You should eliminate home hazards that lead to falls by removing loose rugs and fixing slippery floors.
Final Overview
These were the fundamentals of frequent fractures in children. As parents, we must be cautious and implement relevant measures to minimise the chances of injuries. Be sure to connect with best child orthopedic doctor in Mumbai, Dr Chirag Patel to gain more detailed information on this topic.