Bone fracture in children

Fractures in childhood are often characterized by mild symptomatology. This is due to age-related peculiarities; children's bones are elastic and characterized by strong periosteum, which sometimes, despite a fracture of the cortical part of the bone, is not damaged and leads to masking of the clinical picture. Any bone can fracture, but fractures of the forearm, lower arm and phalanges of the fingers are the most common. Most fractures in childhood have a benign outcome, although meta-epiphyseal fractures require special attention, which can lead to further delayed bone development.

Signs and symptoms of a fracture

If a fracture is suspected, the following clinical signs should be noted

• Local swelling, deformity, and skin discoloration on the limb
• Pain in the affected area on palpation (pressure).
• Limitation of movement in adjacent joints
• Sometimes a high-energy injury can also damage the skin, in which case we are dealing with a more complex, open fracture.

First aid for a fracture

Basic first aid for a fracture includes

• Immobilization of the limb - to exclude further displacement of fragments and, accordingly, to reduce pain and the degree of further damage to soft tissues
• Local hypothermia - to prevent further swelling of the injured limb (do not apply ice to bare skin, it is better to wrap it in a piece of cloth).
• In case of a lower limb fracture, it is best to transport the patient in the supine position. For upper limb fractures, the arm should be suspended from the neck.
• Analgesia - if pain occurs, the patient should take a painkiller.

When to consult a doctor

If a fracture is suspected, it is necessary to consult a doctor to clarify the diagnosis and determine further treatment tactics. See a doctor immediately if:

• The patient experiences severe pain as a result of the injury
• The limb is deformed
• The limb has an unusual color, peripheral pulsation is weak and/or absent
• There is a cut on the limb.

Treatment

When a fracture occurs, immobilization of the limb with a special fixator or plaster cast is necessary, depending on the location of the fracture, the type of fracture, the age of the patient, etc. If the fracture requires the fixation of fragments by conservative or surgical methods, these procedures are performed under anesthesia and sedation.

Home care

During treatment, the patient must necessarily follow the recommendations specified by the doctor. Inadequate physical activity is not allowed, in case of loosening of the plaster or other fixation means, they must be corrected or replaced. During treatment, the fracture should be monitored radiologically, so that in case of secondary displacement, timely and adequate intervention can be made.

At the time of fracture it is important to:

• Control pain
• Control swelling, limb color, and peripheral pulsation
• The injured limb should be in an elevated position
• Intermittent application of local hypothermia topically for 24-72 hours is necessary

• Follow the doctor's recommendations