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    Broken Bones: A Note About Children

    A child’s bones heal the same way as an adult’s bones. But since a child’s bones are still growing, there are a few special concerns.

    Growth plates

    Growth plates are fragile groups of cells at the ends of a child’s long bones (such as the arms and legs). Growth plates make sure that the bones keep growing until they reach full length. If a growth plate is damaged in a fracture, the bone may not grow as it should. Fractures involving growth plates may need more follow-up visits to make sure the bones are growing correctly.

    Cross-section of bone showing a growth plate and fractured growth plate

    Remodeling

    Remodeling happens more quickly in children than in adults. This means a child’s broken bone may not need to be lined up perfectly. As it heals, the bone straightens through remodeling. The younger a child is, the more likely the bones will grow straight with time.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Dan Brennan MD
    Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD
    Date Last Reviewed: 9/1/2023
    © 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center

    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

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