Smooth branch fracture
A smooth branch fracture occurs when the bone does not break into pieces, but instead bends and cracks. This type of broken bone is more common in children because their bones are softer and more flexible than those of adults
In some cases, the diagnosis of a smooth branch fracture becomes difficult because there may be no pain or stiffness and the child may be able to use the limb without problems. Mild smooth branch fractures are often confused with sprains
Even light smooth branch fractures are immobilized with plaster As well as helping to hold the broken pieces of bone together for healing, the plaster will also protect the bone from breaking completely in the event of repeated injury.
Falls are the main cause of fractures in childhood Fractures of the arm are more common than the leg, because usually when the child starts to fall, the arms open
The acute pain, swelling, and noticeable deformity characteristic of typical bone fractures may be minimal or absent in smooth shaft fractures. In other cases, we can easily make a diagnosis of a smooth branch fracture due to the deformity of the limb and a noticeable impaction
When to see a doctor
Call a doctor if your child has persistent pain in the affected limb Seek immediate medical attention if the child cannot stand on the affected leg or if there is noticeable pain, deformity, or stiffness
