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Arm Injuries

Elbow Fractures

When kids play hard, they fall hard. Enough force applied to an outstretched arm can cause a fracture. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 10% of all fractures in children are elbow fractures. A child can fracture their elbow in several areas outline below.

• Above the elbow — (primarily occurs in children under the age of 8) When the upper arm bone breaks, it can cause nerve damage.

• At the elbow knob — These injuries can affect the growth plate of the humerus and joint surface.

• Below the elbow — Dislocation of the elbow can break off the tip of the radius (smallest forearm bone) or cause a compression fracture.

Treating the fracture depends on its severity and location. The orthopedist may carefully move the bones back into alignment and apply a cast for 3 to 5 weeks. Some cases require surgery or immobilizing the fracture with pins.

Forearm Fractures The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that 40 - 50% of kids' fractures occur in the forearm. High energy, contact sports place kids at greater risk for forearm fractures. Falling with an outstretched arm can cause a fracture to one or both of the bones (ulna and radius) of the lower arm. If the area has any deformity, acute pain, tenderness, swelling or inability to rotate, you should see an orthopedic physician.

Treatment of forearm fractures depends upon the following factors:

• If the skin is broken

• If the break is unstable

• If bone segments are out of alignment from the bone

• If the bones can be realigned by manipulation

• If the bones have begun to heal incorrectly

A serious fracture in which both forearm bones are broken and the head of the radius is dislocated usually requires complete immobilization for six to ten weeks. It is important to act quickly if you suspect that your child may have a broken bone.

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