Pediatric Fractures – Why Growth Plates Matter & How to Protect Your Child: By Dr. Balaraju Naidu, Robotic Orthopedic Surgeon, ONUS Robotic Hospitals
Every parent worries when a child falls. But when that fall leads to a fracture near a joint, it needs special attention. Unlike adults, children have growth plates — delicate, active zones that help bones lengthen. Any injury here can affect how the bone grows in the future.
What Are Growth Plates?
Growth plates (physes) are soft, cartilage-like areas found at both ends of long bones. They are responsible for:
- Bone lengthening
- Bone shape and alignment
- Coordinated joint movement
Girls’ growth plates close by 14–16 years, and boys’ by 16–18 years.
Why Children Fracture More Easily
Children’s bones are softer and more flexible. Their ligaments are stronger, so instead of sprains, kids tend to experience fractures. Sports, playground falls, cycle accidents, and even minor twists can cause injuries.
Why Growth Plate Fractures Need Special Care
A fracture through a growth plate can:
- Stop bone growth
- Slow growth compared to the opposite limb
- Cause angular deformity
- Lead to early joint changes
These complications may not appear immediately — sometimes months later.
Common Sites of Growth Plate Injuries
- Wrist
- Ankle
- Knee
- Shoulder
- Elbow
These areas experience high stress during running, jumping, or falls.
Symptoms Parents Should Watch For
- Severe pain after a fall
- Inability to bear weight
- Swelling around the joint
- Visible deformity
- Persistent pain even after two days
- Child refusing to use the limb
Diagnosis & Evaluation
Diagnosis starts with:
- X-rays (first step)
- MRI (if X-ray is unclear but pain persists)
- CT scan (rarely needed)
The goal is to understand whether the growth plate is displaced or intact.
Treatment Options
- Cast/Plaster (most cases)
- For stable growth plate fractures
- Regular follow-ups needed
- Closed Reduction (alignment without surgery)
- Surgery (pins/screws)
- Needed if the growth plate is not aligned
- Used for severe fractures or displaced injuries
Why Follow-Up Is Critical
Even if the fracture heals, doctors need to monitor growth for months or years to ensure the bone grows normally.
Follow-up schedule:
- 2 weeks
- 6 weeks
- 3–6 months
- Yearly until growth plate closes (if major injury)
Prevention Tips for Parents
- Use protective gear during sports
- Teach safe landing techniques
- Avoid risky play on hard surfaces
- Ensure proper footwear
- Treat every joint pain after fall seriously
Pediatric fractures heal beautifully when treated at the right time. But growth plate injuries need expert evaluation to prevent future deformity. Early detection, correct alignment, and consistent follow-ups are the keys to protecting your child’s bone health
For Appointments:
ONUS Robotic Hospitals – Hyderabad
