First Aid for a Broken Bone

What is a Broken Bone?

A broken bone, medically referred to as a fracture, occurs when there is a break or crack in the bone. Fractures can vary in severity, ranging from simple hairline fractures to complete breaks that puncture the skin. It can be a distressing experience, especially when it happens to a child. There are several types of fractures, including:

Closed (simple) fracture: The bone is broken, but the skin remains intact.
Open (compound) fracture: The bone breaks through the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
Greenstick fracture: The bone bends and cracks, common in children whose bones are more flexible.
Comminuted fracture: The bone shatters into multiple pieces.
Stress fracture: A small crack in the bone often caused by repetitive motion or overuse.

What Causes a Broken Bone?

Fractures occur when the bone is subjected to more force than it can withstand. Common causes include:

Falls: Children often break bones from falls during play or sports.
Trauma: Accidents such as car crashes or collisions during sports can result in broken bones.
Overuse: Repetitive motions or excessive force, especially in athletes, can cause stress fractures.
Medical Conditions: Certain diseases can weaken bones, such as cancer, which may cause bones to break more easily.
Osteoporosis: A condition where bones become weak and brittle, more common in older adults but can affect children with specific medical conditions.
Direct blow: A direct hit to the bone, as seen in contact sports or physical altercations, can cause fractures.

What Should I Do Immediately?

In case of a broken bone, it is crucial to act promptly:

Stay Calm: Reassure your child and keep them as still as possible to avoid further injury.
Immobilise the Area: Use a splint or padding to immobilise the affected limb. Do not try to realign the bone yourself.
Apply Ice: Wrap ice in a cloth and apply it to the injured area to reduce swelling and pain. Avoid placing ice directly on the skin.
Elevate: If possible, elevate the injured limb above heart level to help reduce swelling.
Control Bleeding: If there is an open fracture with bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to control bleeding without pressing directly on the wound.
Check for Shock: Symptoms of shock include pale, clammy skin, rapid pulse, and shallow breathing. If your child is in shock, lay them down with their feet elevated and cover them with a blanket.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if the fracture appears minor, it is essential to seek medical attention to assess the injury properly.

When Does My Child Need to See a Doctor?

Your child should see a doctor if you suspect there is a broken bone. A doctor will align the book for proper healing. You can suspect a fracture if the child has following:

They cannot move or put weight on the affected limb.
There is visible deformity, swelling, or bruising.
They are in severe pain, swelling, or bruising.
The injured area is numb or has a tingling sensation.
It is an open fracture where the bone is visible through the skin.

When Should I Call Emergency Services?

Call emergency services if:

The bone has pierced the skin (open fracture) which poses a high risk of infection.
There is significant bleeding.
The injured area is deformed, with the bone out of place.
Your child is unresponsive or exhibits signs of severe shock (pale, clammy, or rapid breathing).
You are unable to transport your child safely to the hospital.

How to Prevent Broken Bones

Preventing broken bones involves a combination of safety measures and promoting bone health:

Ensure Safe Play: Supervise young children during playtime, and ensure they use playground equipment properly.
Use Protective Gear: Equip your child with appropriate protective gear for sports and physical activities, such as helmets, pads, and proper footwear.
Promote Bone Health: Encourage a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to strengthen bones. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are excellent sources.
Regular Exercise: Promote weight-bearing exercises like walking, running, and jumping to enhance bone density.
Safety Measures at Home: Install safety gates, secure rugs, and keep floors clear of obstacles to prevent falls.
Education: Teach your child about the importance of safety rules and being mindful of their surroundings.
Regular Check-ups: Monitor bone health through regular medical check-ups, especially for children and older adults.