Broken Bones in Children: What Parents Need to Know

Kids are active, curious, and constantly on the move. Because of that, bumps, falls, and accidents are sometimes part of growing up. While many childhood injuries are minor, broken bones, also called fractures, are one of the most common reasons children are brought to the emergency room. At The Emergency Center, we are fully equipped to diagnose and stabilize broken bones in children of all ages, providing fast care when it matters most.
Understanding the signs of a fracture, what to do next, and how we can help can give parents peace of mind during a stressful moment.

Common Causes of Broken Bones in Children and How to Recognize Them

Infants and Toddlers (0 to 3 years old)

Broken bones are less common in infants and toddlers, but they can happen due to falls from furniture, car accidents, or other injuries. Because very young children cannot always tell you what hurts, fractures may be harder to recognize.

Common signs include:

  • Crying or fussiness when a limb is touched or moved
  • Swelling or bruising
  • Refusal to crawl, stand, or use an arm or leg

Any unexplained pain or sudden change in movement in this age group should be evaluated right away.

Preschool and School-Age Children (4 to 10 years old)

As children become more active, broken bones become more common. Playground falls, bike accidents, and sports injuries are frequent causes.

Common fractures include:

  • Wrist and forearm fractures from falling on an outstretched hand
  • Collarbone fractures
  • Finger or toe fractures

Children in this age group can often describe their pain, but they may still try to keep playing. Swelling, bruising, or limited movement should not be ignored.

Preteens and Teenagers (11 to 18 years old)

Older children and teenagers have a higher risk of fractures related to sports, skateboarding, and other high-impact activities. Growth plates, which are areas of developing tissue near the ends of bones, are especially vulnerable during these years.

Common injuries include:

  • Ankle and foot fractures
  • Arm and elbow fractures
  • Growth plate injuries

Prompt treatment is important to ensure bones heal properly and do not affect future growth.

Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Bone in Children: What to Look For

Every injury is different, but common signs of a fracture include:

  • Pain that worsens with movement
  • Swelling or bruising
  • A limb that looks bent or out of place
  • Inability or refusal to use the injured area
  • Numbness or tingling

If a bone is visible through the skin or the injury involves severe pain or bleeding, emergency care is critical.

Immediate Steps to Take If You Suspect Your Child Has a Broken Bone

If you think your child may have a broken bone:

  • Keep them still and avoid moving the injured area
  • Apply ice wrapped in a cloth to help reduce swelling
  • Do not try to straighten the limb
  • Seek immediate medical care

Even injuries that seem minor can worsen without proper treatment.

How The Emergency Center Provides Fast, Expert Care for Children’s Broken Bones

At The Emergency Center, we know how frightening injuries can be for both children and parents. Our freestanding children’s emergency rooms are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provide hospital-level emergency care without long wait times.

We offer:

  • On-site X-ray imaging for fast and accurate diagnosis
  • Board-certified emergency physicians experienced in pediatric care
  • Pain management appropriate for children
  • Stabilization of fractures
  • Coordination with orthopedic specialists when follow-up care is needed

Our team takes the time to explain the injury, treatment plan, and next steps so parents feel informed and supported.

Why Quick Medical Attention is Critical for Children’s Broken Bones

Children heal quickly, but only when injuries are treated properly. If your child has a fall or injury and you are unsure whether it is serious, it is always better to be safe. At The Emergency Center, we are here for life’s unexpected moments, ready to care for your child with speed, compassion, and expertise any time, day or night.

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The Emergency Center

San Antonio
11320 Alamo Ranch Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78253
Phone: 210-485-3644

Conroe
4019 Interstate 45 N,
Conroe, TX 77304
Phone: 936-247-9457