Lower Extremity Fractures

Children break bones more easily than adults - so pediatric fractures are very common. There are several unique features of the pediatric musculoskeletal system that need to be considered in management decisions of all of these injuries - growth plates, plasticity, callus formation, remodeling potential, and partial breaks are some of the key ones. Recognition and appropriate management of pediatric fractures by ED providers is critical. While some common minor wrist and ankle fractures can be treated with a less conservative approach encouraging an early return to activities, other fractures if not treated properly can result in long term functional problems for the child and/or be a sign of child maltreatment.