Broken Bones (Fractures) in Children

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Broken bones, also called fractures, are common in children. Most heal well with prompt care and proper treatment. Learn the signs, causes, and what to do if your child has a fracture. 

What is a broken bone?

A broken bone (fracture) occurs when a bone cracks or breaks partially or completely. 

Common causes:

• Falls (most common)
• Sports injuries
• Playground or everyday accidents

What are the symptoms of a broken bone?

Signs can vary, but the most common symptoms include: 

• Pain (sharp or throbbing)
• Swelling or bruising
• Difficulty moving the injured area
• A bent or crooked appearance
• Numbness or tingling

Get medical care right away if you suspect a fracture. Broken bones need to be treated as soon as possible so the injury heals properly and doesn’t cause any serious problems.

When should I call 911?

Do not move your child and call emergency services immediately if:

• You suspect a head, neck, or spine injury 
• A bone is visible through the skin 

While waiting:

• Keep your child still
• Do not move the injured area
• Do not push bones back into place

Types of broken bones in children

Common pediatric fracture types:

• Greenstick fracture: Bone bends and cracks on one side 
• Buckle (torus) fracture: Bone compresses without fully breaking 

Other fracture types:

• Growth plate fracture
• Stress fracture
• Avulsion fracture
• Comminuted fracture
• Compression fracture

How are broken bones diagnosed?

Specialists at Rady Children’s Health use fast, high-quality X-rays—with the lowest radiation dose possible—to:

• Confirm the fracture
• Identify the location
• Determine the type of break

Additional imaging, such as pediatric CT-scan or MRI may also be ordered for complex fractures.

How are broken bones treated?

Our orthopedic specialists treat broken bones in our Fracture Clinic.

Common treatments:

• Casts
• Splints
• Braces

These keep the bone stable while it heals. If bones are out of place, a procedure called a reduction may be needed.

• Closed reduction: Bone repositioned without surgery
• Open reduction: Surgery for complex fractures

How do bones heal?

Healing happens in stages:

1. Blood clot forms around the fracture 
2. Soft callus develops 
3. New bone forms and hardens 
4. Bone strengthens over time 

Fractures in children have the ability to remodel. This is the process where the bones continue to reshape overtime back into a normal alignment as the child continues to grow, without another procedure.

How to care for your child at home

Help your child recover by:

• Providing calcium- and vitamin D-rich foods 
• Keeping casts clean and dry 
• Following activity restrictions 
• Attending all follow-up visits

After recovery:

• Gradual return to activity is recommended 
• Some children may need physical therapy 

How can fractures be prevented in children?

Reduce risk by:

• Encouraging strong bones (diet + exercise) 
• Using proper sports safety gear 
• Wearing helmets and protective pads 
• Childproofing your home for younger children

What is the outlook for children with fractures?

Most broken bones in children:

• Heal completely 
• Do not cause long-term issues 
• Allow full return to normal activities