To get the best experience while viewing this site, it is recommended that you upgrade to a modern browser version of Chrome or Firefox.

You may do so by clicking on one of these icons:


southern new mexico surgery center
 
  •  

  •  
    Health Library Explorer
    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings Contact Us
    Pediatric Health Library
    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Topic IndexLibrary Index
    Click a letter to see a list of conditions beginning with that letter.
    Click 'Topic Index' to return to the index for the current topic.
    Click 'Library Index' to return to the listing of all topics.

    Superficial Injuries of the Face and Head: Overview

    During a child's day, minor injuries may happen during play and sports activities. The face and head are especially at risk for cuts and scrapes. This is because:

    • Children have much larger heads compared to the rest of their bodies than adults do. This creates a larger target when falls happen.

    • Children's center of balance is not fully adjusted yet. This is due to their rapid growth. And the bowed position of the spine.

    • Children's feet are often toed-in. This causes them to trip and fall when walking and running.

    • Children like to move fast and often run rather than walk. This happens even before they are able to run confidently.

    • Children don't think about consequences for their actions. They may act impulsively and create unsafe conditions. These include running with a pencil in their mouth. Or with scissors in their hands.

    You can be careful in your home. And you can take safety steps. But when your child is active indoors or outdoors, minor injuries to the face and head do happen.

    Try to stay calm. And know some basic first-aid methods. This can help your child overcome both the fear and the trauma of their injuries.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Callie Tayrien RN MSN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Eric Perez MD
    Online Medical Reviewer: L Renee Watson MSN RN
    Date Last Reviewed: 3/1/2023
    © 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.
    horizontal line

    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

    Disclaimer