Childhood is full of exploration and activity, which often comes with its share of scrapes, bumps, and occasionally, fractures. Pediatric fractures and other orthopedic injuries require specialized care due to children’s unique bone structure and growth patterns. At Advanced Pediatrics of Rockland in Pomona, NY, Dr. Andrew Satran is dedicated to providing expert care for young patients with orthopedic injuries, helping them recover quickly and safely while supporting optimal bone health and development.

Understanding Pediatric Fractures and Bone Growth

Unlike adults, children’s bones are still growing, which affects how injuries heal and what treatments are most effective. Children’s bones are more flexible than adult bones, which allows them to absorb impact differently. This flexibility sometimes prevents fractures, but when a bone does break, it requires specific treatment to avoid complications in growth. For example, fractures that impact growth plates—the areas where new bone growth occurs—need careful attention to ensure they don’t interfere with bone development.

Common Fracture Types in Children

1. Greenstick Fracture
   A greenstick fracture is common in children and happens when the bone bends and cracks on one side without breaking completely. This type of fracture often occurs in the arms due to falls.
2. Buckle (or Torus) Fracture
   Buckle fractures happen when one side of the bone is compressed, causing it to bulge. These fractures are generally stable and can be treated with a cast to ensure proper healing.
3. Growth Plate Fracture
   Growth plate fractures require prompt medical attention, as they impact the area of the bone responsible for growth. These fractures can lead to future complications in bone development if not treated correctly.
4. Supracondylar Fracture
   Supracondylar fractures occur just above the elbow and are common in younger children. These fractures often result from falls onto an outstretched arm, and due to the risk of nerve damage, immediate treatment is essential.

Identifying Common Signs of a Fracture

Symptoms of a fracture can vary, but common indicators include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and inability to move or bear weight on the injured area. For children, who may struggle to describe their symptoms accurately, it’s essential to observe behavior changes—such as refusing to use a limb or favoring the uninjured side—as these may signal an injury.

Non-Fracture Orthopedic Injuries in Children

In addition to fractures, children may experience other common orthopedic injuries, including sprains, strains, and dislocations:

• Sprains are ligament injuries typically caused by stretching or twisting. They are common in joints like the ankle or wrist and can cause swelling, bruising, and pain.
• Strains involve muscle or tendon injuries and can happen from overuse or overstretching. These injuries are common in active children involved in sports.
• Dislocations occur when a joint is forced out of position. While rare, elbow and shoulder dislocations can happen in children due to falls or trauma.

Treatment Approaches for Pediatric Fractures and Injuries

Treating fractures in children often involves methods designed to ensure minimal disruption to the natural bone growth process. Dr. Satran and the team at Advanced Pediatrics of Rockland prioritize treatments that promote safe and complete recovery, using the least invasive options whenever possible.

1. Casting and Splinting
   Many pediatric fractures are treated with casts or splints, which stabilize the bone and allow it to heal in the correct position. For stable fractures like buckle fractures, a simple cast is often enough to encourage healing over a few weeks.
2. Closed Reduction and Immobilization
   For certain fractures that are out of alignment, such as displaced fractures, a closed reduction may be needed. This involves realigning the bone without surgery, followed by casting to keep the bone in place as it heals.
3. Surgical Intervention
   Surgery is typically a last resort for pediatric fractures and is reserved for complex cases, such as fractures involving the growth plate or severe supracondylar fractures. Surgical procedures might include the use of pins or plates to stabilize the bone and ensure proper healing.
4. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
   After a bone has healed, physical therapy can help a child regain strength, flexibility, and function. Rehabilitation exercises are especially crucial for injuries near joints, like the elbow or knee, to prevent stiffness and promote a full recovery.

Preventing Pediatric Orthopedic Injuries

While not all injuries are preventable, certain steps can reduce the risk:

1. Encouraging Safe Play
   Supervised environments, such as playgrounds with padded surfaces and properly maintained sports fields, lower the risk of falls and other injuries.
2. Using Appropriate Safety Gear
   Helmets, wrist guards, knee pads, and other protective equipment are essential for active children. Ensuring that safety gear fits correctly and is worn consistently can greatly reduce the risk of fractures and other injuries.
3. Strength and Flexibility Training
   For children involved in sports, strengthening exercises and flexibility training can support joint stability, reducing the risk of sprains and strains. Dr. Satran often recommends age-appropriate exercises that align with a child’s developmental stage.
4. Healthy Nutrition for Strong Bones
   A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is vital for bone health. Encouraging children to consume dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods can support their bone growth and strength, reducing the likelihood of fractures.

How Advanced Pediatrics of Rockland Supports Recovery

At Advanced Pediatrics of Rockland, Dr. Satran and his team provide comprehensive care tailored to each child’s specific needs. From accurate diagnostics to tailored treatment plans, the team is committed to supporting every step of the recovery process. After initial treatment, Dr. Satran works closely with families to ensure children follow post-care instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and participate in any necessary rehabilitation exercises.

Maintaining your child’s orthopedic health is an ongoing process that combines safe practices, regular medical care, and a supportive environment for physical activity. Encouraging children to listen to their bodies, follow safety guidelines, and prioritize nutrition can foster long-term bone health and resilience. If your child does experience an injury, the team at Advanced Pediatrics of Rockland is ready to provide the expert care needed to help them heal and thrive.

Sources:

1. Schilling, P. L., et al. (2017). Epidemiology of Pediatric Fractures Presenting to Emergency Departments in the United States. JAMA Pediatrics.
2. Cheng, J. C., & Shen, W. Y. (2000). Limb Fracture Pattern in Different Pediatric Age Groups. Journal of Orthopedic Trauma.
3. Shanmugavadivel, D., & Mawhinney, R. (2017). Pediatric Musculoskeletal Injuries in Primary Care. Archives of Disease in Childhood.