Fractures in Children: Do’s and Don’ts

Fractures in children are a common concern for parents, especially with how active and energetic kids can be.

Whether from a fall on the playground or a sports injury, it’s essential to understand how to handle pediatric fractures the right way.

At Pinnacle Ortho Hospital, Dr. Sandeep Vaidya, a renowned pediatric surgeon in Thane with over 10 years of experience, shares his expert advice on the do’s and don’ts for child fractures, along with tips for proper care, healing, and prevention.

Understanding Fractures in Children:

Children being naturally active and Playful are unfortunately prone to falls and injuries, a fracture is simply a break in a bone, it can range to a small crack to a complete fracture.

A Large study shows that almost 75% children sustain at least 1 fracture by the age of 16 years, because their bones are growing they can sometimes fracture in unique ways compared to Adults, but regardless of the type of fractures, it is essential to know for parents to know how to react when you suspect a fracture.

Below are the Do’s and Don’t’s of this situation.

Lets understand, What are Pediatric Fractures?

Pediatric fractures refer to broken bones in children and adolescents.

Unlike adult bones, children’s bones are still growing and are more flexible, which means the pattern of fractures differs.

Common causes include:

• Falls during play
• Sports injuries
• Bicycle or road accidents
• Roughhousing at home or school

Signs of a Fracture in a Child

Not all fractures are obvious.

Here’s how to tell if a child has a broken bone:

• Swelling around the injured area
• Visible deformity
• Intense pain when touched or moved
• Limited use of the affected body part
• Bruising and tenderness
• Child avoiding movement or crying persistently

First Aid for Child Fractures

Immediate Steps to Take

Knowing the right first aid for child fractures can make a big difference:

• Keep the child calm and still, as a parent your child is looking at you for Reassurance – If you (Parent) panic, child is going to be scared
• Stop the Activity Immediately, don’t let them try to walk or move the injured part. Any further movement can worsen the injury and cause more pain.
• Support the injured area, Example: If it’s in the arm gently support it with a sling, if it’s a leg, try to keep it still and elevated if possible. You can also use cardboard splint to transport it to the hospital.
• Seek Medical Attention immediately
• Avoid giving the child anything to eat or drink until seen by a doctor

What Not to Do with a Child’s Fracture?

• Never try to realign the bone on your own – Do not try to POP the bone back by yourself
• Don’t apply heat or massage the area, if there is a fracture, massaging can further increase pain and swelling
• Avoid moving the child unless absolutely necessary
• Don’t delay visiting a pediatric surgeon in Thane

Dos and Don’ts for Child Fractures – By Dr. Sandeep Vaidya

Do’s

• Seek timely medical attention from a pediatric orthopaedic expert
• Follow casting or splinting instructions carefully
• Keep the cast dry and intact
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Encourage a healthy diet rich in bone-building nutrients – Consult your doctor

Don’ts

• Don’t remove or tamper with the cast
• Don’t allow the child to resume sports without clearance
• Don’t overlook persistent pain or discomfort
• Don’t ignore swelling or color changes near the injury site

Child Fractures Treatment in Thane at Pinnacle Ortho Hospital

At Pinnacle Ortho Hospital, child fractures treatment in Thane is managed with specialized care tailored for young patients.

Dr. Sandeep Vaidya uses advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive techniques to ensure precise and quick healing of fractures in children.

Why parents trust us:

• Experienced pediatric orthopaedic team
• Child-friendly environment
• Accurate diagnosis and treatment
• High Tech rehabilitation and follow-up care

Healing Time for Children’s Fractures

The healing time for children’s fractures varies by age and the type of fracture:

• Minor fractures: 3–4 weeks
• Moderate fractures: 4–6 weeks
• Complex fractures: 6–8 weeks or more

Children generally heal faster than adults due to active bone growth, but proper care is essential to avoid long-term issues.

Can a Child’s Fracture Heal on Its Own?

Parents often ask, “Can a child’s fracture heal on its own?”

Most fractures require medical evaluation to prevent complications like:

• Misaligned bones
• Growth disturbances
• Limited movement

Always consult a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon for proper evaluation.

How to Treat a Child’s Broken Bone?

How to treat a child’s broken bone depends on the fracture type and severity:

• Surgical treatment: Required for severe or displaced fractures.
• Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy may be needed post-healing for regaining strength and mobility.

Can Kids Play Sports After a Fracture?

Yes—but only after full recovery. Dr. Sandeep Vaidya recommends:

• Waiting until the bone is fully healed
• Gradual reintroduction to physical activity
• Wearing protective gear
• Monitoring for pain or discomfort

Returning to sports too early can risk reinjury and prolong recovery.

How to Prevent Fractures in Children

Prevention plays a key role in minimizing pediatric fractures.

Safety Tips

• Use helmets and protective gear during sports or cycling
• Supervise playtime for toddlers and young children
• Install safety gates and corner guards at home

When to Visit a Pediatric Surgeon in Thane?

If your child has sustained an injury and you’re unsure of the severity, don’t take chances.

Visit Dr. Sandeep Vaidya, an expert pediatric surgeon in Thane, especially if:

• Pain persists beyond 24 hours
• Swelling increases
• The child avoids using the limb, is not walking properly, complaining of a pain
• You suspect a deformity

Conclusion

Fractures in children need timely diagnosis and expert treatment to ensure proper healing and bone development.

With specialized care from Dr. Sandeep Vaidya at Pinnacle Ortho Hospital, you can ensure your child receives the best care for a fast and full recovery.

For trusted child fractures treatment in Thane, book an appointment with our pediatric orthopaedic team today.