Broken Bones in Children
Kids are active — and sometimes, that means accidents happen. Whether it’s from sports, playground play, or everyday adventures, broken bones (fractures) are among the most common childhood injuries. At Iowa Ortho, our pediatric orthopedic specialists provide compassionate, expert care to help children heal quickly and return to the activities they love.
Understanding pediatric fractures
Children’s bones are still growing, which means they break differently from adult bones. Pediatric fractures can range from simple cracks to more complex breaks that affect the growth plate, the area of developing tissue at the ends of long bones.
Because growth plates are unique to children, it’s important to seek care from a pediatric orthopedic specialist who understands how to treat fractures without disrupting normal bone growth.
Common causes of broken bones in kids
- Falls from playground equipment, bikes, or skateboards
- Sports injuries (especially in contact sports)
- Accidents at home or school
- Overuse or stress fractures from repetitive activity
Common types of fractures in children
- Greenstick fracture: A partial break where the bone bends and cracks but doesn’t fully separate
- Torus (buckle) fracture: A compression injury where the bone bulges but doesn’t break completely
- Growth plate fracture: Affects the soft tissue at the end of the bone that controls future growth
- Complete fracture: The bone breaks into two or more pieces
- Open (compound) fracture: The bone pierces the skin, requiring immediate medical attention
Symptoms of a broken bone
If your child experiences any of the following after an injury, they should be evaluated by an orthopedic provider:
- Swelling or bruising near the injured area
- Pain or tenderness when touched or moved
- Deformity or visible bend in the bone
- Difficulty moving the limb or bearing weight
- Hearing or feeling a “snap” at the time of injury
Diagnosis and treatment
At Iowa Ortho, diagnosis typically begins with a physical exam and X-rays to determine the type and severity of the fracture.
Treatment options may include:
- Casting or splinting to immobilize the bone while it heals
- Closed reduction (manipulating the bone back into place without surgery)
- Surgical fixation in severe or displaced fractures, often using small pins or plates
- Physical therapy after healing to restore strength and motion
Most pediatric fractures heal within 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the child’s age and the bone involved.
Why choose Iowa Ortho for pediatric fracture care?
- Specialized expertise in children’s bone and joint health
- Kid-friendly care that reduces fear and anxiety
- Access to advanced imaging and treatment options
- Comprehensive follow-up to ensure proper healing and growth
Your child’s healing starts here.
If your child has suffered a suspected fracture, trust the pediatric orthopedic team at Iowa Ortho to provide expert diagnosis and care.
Schedule an appointment today to get your child back on their feet.
If the accident happens on a Saturday or after hours, visit one of our orthopedic urgent care clinics for quick care and an expedited referral to our pediatric specialists.