Growth plate fractures

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Symptoms

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Illustration of a growth-plate fracture 
Growth-plate fracture

The growth plates in the fingers and in the forearm bones, at the wrist, seem to be most susceptible to growth plate factures. The lower leg bones are also particularly vulnerable to these types of injuries.

Signs and symptoms of a growth plate fracture may include:

  • Severe pain that doesn't go away
  • An inability to move the affected area
  • An inability to put weight or pressure on the area

When to see a doctor
If you suspect a fracture — particularly if pain interferes with moving or putting pressure on a limb — take your child to be examined by a doctor. Additionally, have your child evaluated if you notice a visible malformation in your child's arms or legs, or if your child is having trouble playing sports because of persistent pain.

References
  1. Growth Plate Fractures, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, accessed 7/31/08, http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/fact/thr_report.cfm?Thread_ID=244&topcategory=Children
  2. Questions and Answers About Growth Plate Injuries, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, accessed 7/31/08, http://www.niams.nih.gov/hi/topics/growth_plate/growth.htm
  3. Kay, BK-B, Chapter 42 - Orthopedics, Children's Dislocations and Fractures, In: Doherty GM, CURRENT Surgical Diagnosis & Treatment, 12th Edition, 2006, The McGraw Hill Company, accessed 7/21/08, http://www.accessmedicine.com/resourceTOC.aspx?resourceID=23
  4. Green NE, Chapter 8 - Fractures of the Forearm, Wrist and Hand: Management of Specific Injuries: Growth Plate Injuries To The Distal Radius and Ulna. In: Skeletal Trauma in Children, 3rd ed., 2003, Saunders, accessed on 7/23/08 through MDConsult, http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/100201301-4/728371990/1219/127.html#4-u1.0-B0-7216-9294-X..50013-2--cesec62_310

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Oct. 21, 2008

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