How to Handle a Broken Bone

Broken bones (or fractures) are a common injury in kids. They often happen after a fall. All broken bones need medical care, no matter how minor they seem.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of a Broken Bone?

Your child may have a broken bone if:

• You heard a "snap" or a grinding noise during an injury.
• There's swelling, bruising, or tenderness.
• The injured part is hard to move or hurts when moving, being touched, or bearing weight.
• There is a deformity — this means that the body part looks crooked or different than it did before the injury.

What Should I Do if My Child Might Have a Broken Bone?

• Try not to move the injured arm or leg.
• Gently take clothing off the injured area. If this is very painful for your child, use scissors to cut off the clothing.
• Keep the injured limb in the position you find it.
• Put a simple splint on the broken area if you have one. A splint holds the bone still. This protects it until the child is seen by the doctor. To make a splint, you can use a small board, cardboard, or folded up newspapers. Wrap it with an elastic bandage or tape.
• Get medical care.
• Don't let your child eat or drink in case they need surgery.

When Should I Call 911 for a Broken Bone?

Do not move your child and call 911 right away if:

• You suspect a serious injury to the head, neck, or back.
• A broken bone comes through the skin. While you wait for help:
  • Keep your child lying down.
  • Do not wash the wound or push in any part that's sticking out.

What Can Help Prevent Broken Bones?

Not every fracture can be prevented. But to make them less likely:

• Help kids build strong bones by making sure they get enough calcium, vitamin D, and physical activity.
• Have kids and teens wear a helmet and safety equipment like wrist guards and knee pads when riding a bicycle, tricycle, skateboard, scooter, or any type of skates and roller blades.
• Remind young athletes to use the needed safety equipment for their sport. 
• Use safety gates at bedroom doors and at both the top and bottom of stairs (for babies or toddlers).
• Do not use infant walkers.