Toddler Fracture - Toddler Fracture Types, Symptoms and how to prevent toddler fractures

Toddler Fracture Symptoms

A toddler fracture is the term given to a spiral fracture of the shinbone in young children under the age of 5 years. A toddler fracture is commonly experienced by toddlers and kindergarteners. It takes place when the toddler is running and happens to lose his or her balance or steps on something and falls down in an awkward manner with most of the child’s weight coming down on a particular part of his leg. This may result in an abrupt convoluting of the tibia (shin bone or leg bone) and may result in a fracture of a spiral pattern. Toddler’s fractures are usually difficult to detect on x-rays and in most cases, a CAT scan of the bone may be required to display the exact location of the fracture. Over a period of time, the location of the fracture will be perceptible as healing commences and the new bone takes shape to mend the fracture.

Among toddlers, the skin and hypodermic tissues are extremely fragile especially over the anterior and central tibia and due to this most toddlers are vulnerable to developing toddler’s fracture. Some toddler fracture symptoms include: anguish, inability to walk, modest puffiness or tenderness and inflammation over the fracture, and discomfort when the location of the fracture is compacted. Toddler fracture treatment calls for a long-shanked cast to be placed on the leg to palliate the painful symptoms and ensure speedy recovery and faster healing. Fortunately, healing is quick and usually takes place within a span of 3 to 4 weeks.

How to prevent Toddler Fractures

In order to prevent toddler’s fractures, it is important to make sure that the area or playground meant for children is free of stones and protrusions from the ground. It is also important to have a sand pit below the jungle gym as this will help to cushion a fall and will prevent serious injuries. The sand in the pit will have to be cleaned regularly and raked and tossed often to ensure that it remains loose. You will also have to teach your toddler not to run down stairs as this is a very common cause of toddler fractures. Toddler’s are very energetic and will tend to run around the house. Make sure that you do not leave small objects lying around as this could cause him/her to trip and fall. Children should be taught to put all their toys away once they are done with their games and to ensure that their play area or room is free of clutter on the floor. Instilling such habits from a very young age will go a long way in preventing accidents.