Pediatric Fractures: How to Care for Your Child’s Broken Bone

Children are naturally active and adventurous, which sometimes makes them prone to accidents and injuries. One of the most common childhood injuries is a fracture, or a broken bone. While pediatric fractures can be distressing for both parents and children, proper care and timely medical attention can ensure a smooth recovery. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about pediatric fractures, including causes, symptoms, treatment options, and how Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi, the best orthopedic doctor in Pune, can help with expert care at his clinics in Nigdi and Thergaon, Pune.

Understanding Pediatric Fractures

Pediatric fractures occur when a child’s bone breaks due to an external force. Since children’s bones are still growing, they tend to be more flexible and have a greater ability to heal than adult bones. However, this also means that fractures in children require specialized care to ensure proper bone growth and healing.

Common Causes of Pediatric Fractures:

• Falls from playground equipment, bicycles, or stairs
• Sports-related injuries
• Car accidents
• Direct impact during play or activities
• Weakened bones due to medical conditions like osteogenesis imperfecta

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Fracture

Identifying a fracture early is essential to prevent complications. The following symptoms may indicate a broken bone in your child:

• Intense pain at the injury site
• Swelling and bruising
• Noticeable deformity or unusual positioning of the limb
• Difficulty in moving or using the injured limb
• A popping or snapping sensation at the moment of injury
• If you suspect your child has a fracture, seek medical attention immediately. Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi, a renowned orthopedic specialist in Pune, provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for pediatric fractures at his clinics in Nigdi and Thergaon.

Types of Pediatric Fractures

Children can experience various types of fractures, including:

1. Greenstick Fracture: A partial break where the bone bends but does not completely break.
2. Torus (Buckle) Fracture: A common injury in children where one side of the bone is compressed, causing a bulge.
3. Complete Fracture: The bone breaks completely into two or more parts.
4. Growth Plate Fracture: A fracture affecting the growth plate, which requires special care to avoid affecting bone development.
5. Stress Fracture: A small crack in the bone caused by repeated stress or overuse.
6. Comminuted Fracture: A severe break where the bone shatters into multiple pieces.

Immediate Care for a Pediatric Fracture

If your child suffers a suspected fracture, follow these first-aid steps before reaching a doctor:

• Keep the injured limb immobile: Use a splint or a soft support like a pillow to prevent movement.
• Apply ice: Wrap an ice pack in a cloth and place it on the injured area to reduce swelling.
• Elevate the limb: Keeping the limb elevated can help reduce swelling and pain.
• Do not attempt to realign the bone: This should only be done by a medical professional.
• Seek medical help immediately: Visit an orthopedic specialist like Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi at his Nigdi or Thergaon clinics in Pune for expert diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment for Pediatric Fractures

The approach to treatment varies based on the type and severity of the fracture.Some of the common treatments include:

1. Casting or Splinting: Most simple fractures are treated with a cast or splint to keep the bone in place during healing.
2. Closed Reduction: If the bone is misaligned, the doctor may manually reposition it before applying a cast.
3. Surgery (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation – ORIF): Severe fractures may require surgical intervention using metal rods, plates, or screws.
4. Physical Therapy: After the bone heals, physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and mobility.

Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi, known as the best orthopedic doctor in Pune, specializes in treating pediatric fractures using advanced and minimally invasive techniques for optimal recovery.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Healing time varies depending on the child’s age, the type of fracture, and the treatment method used. On average, most pediatric fractures heal within 4 to 8 weeks. To ensure a smooth recovery:

• Encourage your child to rest and avoid putting pressure on the injured limb.
• Follow the doctor’s instructions regarding weight-bearing and activity levels.
• Keep the cast clean and dry to avoid skin irritation or infections.
• Attend follow-up appointments for X-rays and progress checks.
• Engage in prescribed physical therapy exercises to regain strength and flexibility.

Why Choose Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi for Pediatric Fracture Treatment?

Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi is a highly experienced orthopedic specialist in Pune, known for his expertise in treating pediatric fractures with a compassionate approach. His clinics in Nigdi and Thergaon, Pune, are well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans for young patients. With a patient-centric approach, Dr. Suryawanshi ensures that every child receives the best care tailored to their specific needs.

Preventing Future Fractures

While not all fractures can be prevented, you can take measures to reduce your child’s risk of injury:

• Encourage protective gear during sports activities.
• Ensure a safe home environment by securing furniture and using safety gates.
• Promote a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D for strong bones.
• Encourage regular exercise to enhance bone density and strength.

Summary

Pediatric fractures can be concerning, but with the right medical care and proper at-home management, your child can recover fully and regain their normal activities. If your child has suffered a fracture, trust Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi, the best orthopedic doctor in Pune, for expert diagnosis and treatment. His clinics in Nigdi and Thergaon are dedicated to providing high-quality orthopedic care to ensure your child’s health and well-being.

For expert orthopedic care, visit Dr. Suryawanshi’s clinics in Nigdi and Thergaon, Pune, and ensure your child’s fracture heals properly with the best medical attention available.