×

Call our office now to schedule your flu and COVID vaccine

Does My Child Have a Broken Bone?


Accidents happen. Perhaps your child hurt themselves falling off their bike or taking a rough tumble down the stairs. In these instances, the first thing you’ll probably do is check your child over for bumps, bruises, and possibly broken bones. It’s important to recognize whether your child could be dealing with a broken bone so that you can bring them in to see their pediatrician right away.


The warning signs of a broken bone include,

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Tenderness
  • A popping or snapping sound at the moment of impact or injury
  • Trouble straightening out the limb or affected area
  • Unable to put weight on the area
  • Limited range of motion or unable to move normally

If the bone is visible through the skin, you must call 911 or head to your nearest emergency room for care. If there is no bone visible but your child is still experiencing the symptoms above, then call your pediatrician right away. This problem should be treated on the very same day by your child’s doctor.


The most common fractures that we see in kids often affect the bones of the elbows, ankles, and wrists. Falling off monkey bars and other injuries on the playground are incredibly common and can lead to wrist and elbow fractures.


How is a broken bone treated?


First, your pediatrician will run X-rays to determine the location and severity of the break. Your doctor will place a splint or cast around the broken bone to provide support and stabilization and to restrict certain movements that could impede healing.


Your doctor may also recommend certain exercises that your child should do at home every day to help ease symptoms such as pain, limited mobility, and swelling. Your doctor may also refer your child to a pediatric orthopedist for physical therapy, depending on the type and extent of the injury. You will also need to bring your child back into the office in a few weeks to see how the broken bone is healing.


A broken bone is considered a serious injury. If your child is displaying symptoms of a broken bone, it’s a good idea to call your pediatrician right away for a consultation.

  •  

    Western Michigan Pediatrics Office Policies

    Read More
  •  

    Patient Centered Medical Home

    Read More
  •  

    Participating Insurances & Financial Policies

    Read More

Grand Rapids Office

Western Michigan Pediatrics
721 Kenmoor Ave., S.E
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546
Phone: (616) 949-6112
Fax: (616) 949-8530


Get Directions!



Jenison Office

Western Michigan Pediatrics
1865 Georgetown Center Dr Suite A,
Jenison, Michigan 49428
Phone: (616) 457-3510
Fax: (616) 457-4660


Get Directions!