A fracture, simply put, is a broken bone. While fractures can occur at any age, they are especially common in children. This is because their bones are still growing and developing, making them more flexible and less dense than adult bones. This flexibility, however, has an upside - it allows children to absorb more impact before a fracture occurs.
Types of Pediatric Fractures
There are several different types of fractures that can occur in children, including:
  • Greenstick fracture: This is a common type of fracture in children where the bone bends and cracks on one side, but does not break completely.
  • Buckle fracture: Similar to a greenstick fracture, this fracture involves a bending and slight indentation of the bone, but no complete breakage.
  • Complete fracture: As the name suggests, this is a complete break in the bone.
  • Comminuted fracture: This is a more serious fracture where the bone is broken into multiple pieces.
  • Open fracture: This is a fracture where the broken bone pierces through the skin. Open fractures require immediate medical attention to prevent infection.
  • Growth plate fracture: These fractures occur in the growth plates, which are the areas of cartilage at the ends of long bones in children. These fractures can have a significant impact on a child's future growth and development.
Causes of Pediatric Fractures
Fractures in children can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
  • Falls: Falls are the most common cause of fractures in children. This is especially true for toddlers who are just learning to walk and run.
  • Sports injuries: Fractures are common in children who participate in sports, especially high-impact sports like football, soccer, and basketball.
  • Motor vehicle accidents: Car accidents are a leading cause of serious fractures in children.
  • Child abuse: Unfortunately, fractures can also be a sign of child abuse.
Treatment of Pediatric Fractures
The treatment for a pediatric fracture will depend on the type and severity of the fracture. In many cases, a fracture can be treated with a cast or splint. In some cases, surgery may be required to repair the fracture.
Here are some of the common treatment methods for pediatric fractures:
  • Casting: A cast is a rigid bandage that is used to immobilize the bone and promote healing.
  • Splinting: A splint is a less rigid bandage that can be used to immobilize the bone while still allowing for some movement.
  • Surgery: Surgery may be required for more serious fractures, such as open fractures or fractures that involve the growth plate.
Prevention of Pediatric Fractures
There are a number of things that parents can do to help prevent fractures in their children:
  • Supervision: Closely supervise young children when they are playing or learning to walk.
  • Safety gear: Make sure children wear appropriate safety gear, such as helmets, pads, and elbow and knee protectors, when participating in sports or other activities that could lead to falls.
  • Strong bones: Ensure a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to promote strong bone development.
When to See a Doctor
If you think your child may have a fracture, it is important to see a doctor right away. Signs and symptoms of a fracture in a child may include:
  • Pain in the injured area
  • Swelling or bruising
  • Deformity of the injured area
  • Difficulty using the injured limb
Early diagnosis and treatment of a fracture can help to ensure a full and complete recovery for your child.
How Dr. Chaudhari at Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics Can Help
If your child has suffered a fracture, Dr. Chaudhari at Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics can help. Dr. Chaudhari is a board-certified pediatric orthopedic surgeon with extensive experience in treating all types of pediatric fractures. He will work closely with you and your child to develop a personalized treatment plan that will help your child heal quickly and completely. Dr. Chaudhari provides pediatric fracture treatment in Pearland, Pasadena, Clear Lake, and Friendswood.
Contact Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics Today
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chaudhari, please contact Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics today.
  • Phone: (281) 456-4412 or (832) 583-2273 (BONE)
  • Fax: (281) 205-8356
  • Email: info@handfootortho.com
Testimonial

Staff was friendly and professional. My appointment was on time and I saw the doctor quickly. I really liked the doctor. He understood my problem and knew exactly how to help. It was a very good experience.

Maxwell O.

The office staff was friendly, helpful and nice, which says a lot for a doctors office. The doctor is a very knowledgeable, kind man. One of the best appointment experience's I have had in a long time. They got straight to what I came in for and handled their business, no long wait, no lag time, just took care of my business. I appreciate that type of service.

Michelle McCorley

Dr Chaudhuri is a great orthopedic surgeon for hand and foot.His clinic is ideally located. With very best staff, extremely talented. I wish them best wishes and always give in your best efforts for your patients

Najam Fazal Khan

I liked the Doctor and the staff. They were all nice and really wanted to help. The doctor put a cast on my had which it needed.The nurse usually does those kind of things for the doctor. It maid me feel good and was done properly by the doctor putting the cast on himself.Thank you doctor.

Karen Ross Mcclellan

It was very pleasure to meet Dr. Nilesh, he examined my mothers X-rays and suggested proper course of action. He gave us time and explained things in simple terms. I will definitely recommend Dr.Nilesh for any future patients.

Kshitij Subhedar

Comprehensive Care:

We offer a complete range of orthopedic services for the hands and feet, including:
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Trigger finger
  • Arthritis
  • Fractures (including distal radius fractures)
  • Sports injuries
  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • And more
Convenient Pasadena Location & Hours
Our Pasadena office is located at 5044 Crenshaw Road Suite 100, Pasadena, TX 77505and easily accessible to residents of both Pasadena and Clear Lake.
Pasadena Office Hours:
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
We are closed on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your hands or feet, please call us at (281) 456-4412 or (832) 583-2273 (BONE) to schedule an appointment at our Pasadena location. We look forward to helping you get back to the activities you love!