Fracture, Greenstick
Fracture, Greenstick Causes
Greenstick fractures often occur when a child falls while playing or engaged in physical or sports activities. Most likely to be harmed are the arm bones because of the instinct to throw out arms when falling.
Fracture, Greenstick Definition
Greenstick fracture occurs when the bone cracks but does not break all the way through. This condition is common among children since a child's bones are more flexible and softer.
Fracture, Greenstick Diagnosis
X-rays can reveal greenstick fractures but doctors may also require an ultrasound or computerized tomography (CT) scan if the fractures are difficult to see with X-rays. The difficulty comes from the fact that a child's bones may not show up well on X-rays.
Fracture, Greenstick Symptoms and Signs
The condition, just like any other broken bone case, causes pain, swelling, and deformity but these are minimal or absent with greenstick fracture. It may also be difficult to identify greenstick fracture from soft-tissue injury such as a sprain or a bad bruise.
Fracture, Greenstick Treatment
Applying casts are the most common way to immobilize a bone. In some cases though, doctors may recommend a removable splint. There are also casts designed for kids and are water-resistant. They come in a variety of colors and designs. Casts are often removed in three weeks time since children's bones tend to heal faster.