Question 1

The X-ray shows my child's broken bone isn't perfectly straight in the cast - will this cause problems long-term?

Accepted Answer

Probably not - children's bones have remarkable ability to remodel (straighten) as they grow, so perfect alignment isn't always necessary. Orthopedic surgeons use age-specific guidelines for acceptable angulation (how much bend is OK). For example, in a 6-year-old with 8+ years of growth remaining, up to 15-20 degrees of angulation in certain directions will fully remodel and the bone will be completely straight by skeletal maturity. Younger children tolerate more angulation than older children. However, rotation (twisting) doesn't remodel well and must be corrected. If your child's fracture has acceptable angulation for their age, the surgeon will monitor it with X-rays but not intervene - the bone will straighten naturally over 12-24 months. Only if angulation exceeds age-specific limits or the fracture shifts significantly in the cast would surgery be needed. This is one of the great advantages of treating children's fractures versus adults - we can accept alignment that would be unacceptable in adults because children will remodel it perfectly.

Question 2

How do I care for my child's cast at home, and what warning signs should I watch for?

Accepted Answer

Cast care: (1) Keep cast completely dry - use plastic bag secured with rubber band during showers/baths; (2) Never insert objects inside cast to scratch itchy skin (can cause skin breakdown and infection); (3) Check fingers daily for swelling, good color, and movement; (4) Elevate arm on pillows for first 48-72 hours to reduce swelling; (5) Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain as needed. Warning signs requiring immediate doctor visit: (1) Severe pain not relieved by pain medication (possible compartment syndrome - medical emergency); (2) Fingers becoming swollen, numb, tingly, pale, blue, or cold (circulation problem); (3) Inability to move fingers (nerve or muscle problem); (4) Cast becoming very tight and painful (swelling inside cast); (5) Foul smell or drainage from cast (infection); (6) Cast cracked or broken (needs repair or replacement); (7) Something stuck inside cast. Most concerning is increasing pain with tight cast - this could indicate compartment syndrome which is a surgical emergency. Trust your instincts - if something doesn't feel right, seek medical attention immediately rather than waiting.

Medical Disclaimer

Broken Forearm in Children (Both-Bone Forearm Fracture)

📖What is Broken Forearm in Children (Both-Bone Forearm Fracture)?

🔬What Causes It?

⚠️Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if:

🛡️Prevention