Overview

A growth plate fracture is a type of break in a child's long bone, such as a thigh bone. Arms, lower legs, and fingers are other examples of limbs that have long bones.

Growth plates are located at both ends of a long bone. A break that goes through the growth plate can affect the growth of that bone. These type of breaks are common.

Treatment for your child's broken bone will depend on how bad the break is and where it's located. Many broken bones need only splinting or casting. Others may need surgery to realign the bone or keep it in place.

Your doctor may have put the broken bone in a splint or a cast. This will allow it to heal or keep it stable until your child sees another doctor. It may take weeks or months for your child's break to heal. You can help it heal with some care at home.

A sedative may have been given to help your child relax. Your child may be unsteady after having sedation. It takes time (sometimes a few hours) for the medicine's effects to wear off. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and feeling sleepy or cranky.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Follow your doctor's directions for wearing a cast or splint.
  • If your child has a splint, do not take it off unless the doctor tells you to.
  • If your child's splint is too tight, ask your doctor if it can be adjusted. Your doctor will show you how to do this and will tell you when you might need to adjust the splint.
• Be safe with medicines. Give pain medicines exactly as directed.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask the doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • Store your child's prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• If possible, prop up the injured limb on a pillow anytime your child sits or lies down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your child's heart. This will help reduce swelling.