Bone Fractures Treatment in Granger, IN
A fracture occurs when there is a break in a bone. In children, the most common fracture we see is to one or more bones in the arm; however, broken collarbones, elbows, hips, and legs are also common. It’s important to be able to distinguish between a minor sprain or strain and an actual bone fracture. After all, bone fractures should be treated right away by our pediatrician, Dr. Charisse Johnson. When fractures and other injuries have you worried about your child, Premier Pediatrics of Indiana is here.
Signs of a Bone Fracture
While teens and older children may be able to tell you the symptoms they are experiencing, toddlers won’t be able to so it’s important to be able to recognize the warning signs for yourself. Common signs of a bone fracture include:
- Pain around the injury
- Tenderness
- Swelling, redness, or bruising
- A visible deformity
- Limited mobility
If the fracture is minor, it’s possible that children may not show any symptoms.
Treating a Bone Fracture
If you suspect that your child has a bone fracture it’s important that you turn to our pediatric team for a diagnosis. Of course, we also understand that you want ways to provide immediate relief to your child, especially if they are in pain. Some common ways to comfort them include:
- Elevating the injured site
- Applying ice to the area
- Preventing unnecessary movement and resting as much as possible
- Applying a splint or sling to immobilize the area
- Giving them an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen
The treatment plan that Dr. Johnson and her team craft for your child will depend on the severity of their fracture. Minor fractures may require simple home care and rest while moderate fractures may require a cast, brace, or splint. As your child’s injury heals we may also recommend physical therapy to help restrengthen the muscles, tissue, and ligaments around the injured bone. The good news is that with the proper care and treatment plan in place, most fractures heal fully without any complications. It can take anywhere from 3-10 weeks for a fracture to fully heal, depending on the extent of the injury.