How to Tell If Your Child Has a Broken Bone, Sprain, or Strain
Active children are naturally prone to bumps, falls, and tumbles. As a parent, it’s crucial to know whether your child’s injury is a broken bone (fracture), sprain, or strain . Understanding the differences helps you respond promptly, prevent complications, and ensure your child gets the appropriate care from a pediatric orthopedic specialist . Understanding Broken Bones, Sprains, and Strains Broken Bone (Fracture): A fracture occurs when a bone cracks or breaks, which can be partial or complete. Children’s bones are more flexible than adults’, so fractures may bend or partially break rather than fully snap. Sprain: A sprain involves stretching or tearing of ligaments, the tissues that connect bones at a joint. Sprains usually result from twisting or sudden impacts during play or sports. Strain: A strain occurs when muscles or tendons—tissues connecting muscles to bones—are overstretched or torn. Strains are commonly caused by overuse or sudden force. While symptoms may overla...