Your Care Instructions

A growth plate fracture is a type of break in a child's long bone, such as a thigh bone. Forearms, 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.

The 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 a doctor in follow-up. It may take weeks or months for your child's break to heal. You can help it heal with some care at home.

Your child may have had a sedative to help him or her 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.

The doctor has checked your child carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Follow the cast care instructions the doctor gives you.
• 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 the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask the doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• If possible, prop up the injured limb. Use pillows to prop up the limb when your child sits or lies down during the next 3 days. Try to keep the broken area above the level of your child's heart. This will help reduce swelling.