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Although bone fractures in children often heal faster than in adults, the characteristics of their bones make it crucial that broken bones in children receive appropriate, experienced care.
Pediatric bones are still developing and are not as strong as in adults. In addition, children have growth plates that are susceptible to injury because they are made of cartilage, which is weaker than bone. These factors, coupled with high levels of activity among children, create an increased risk of fractures.
Treatment of fractures in children requires specialized skills. At UM Orthopaedics, our pediatric providers see hundreds of children with fractures every year. Our team has conducted clinical research on pediatric fractures and the correct techniques for splinting and casting.
Types of Fractures in Children
Fractures are among the most common injuries evaluated by pediatric orthopedic specialists. Common types of fractures in children include the following:
- Buckle - one side of the bone is compressed and buckles in on itself without disrupting the other side
- Greenstick - soft bone bends and breaks, like a twig that breaks on the outside edge when bent
- Midshaft - a break in the middle section of the bone shaft, often in the forearm
- Salter-Harris - fracture involving the growth plate