Broken Bones (Fractures)

What is a broken bone?

If more pressure is placed on a bone than it can withstand, it will split or break. A break, regardless of the size, is called a fracture. There are several different types of factures. Not all broken bones are easy to see, which means an x-ray is required for proper treatment. If left unattended, bones can heal incorrectly, leading to more complicated issues in the future.

What can cause a broken bone?

If your child has a broken bone, it could have many causes, including:

• Direct blow
• Fall
• Twist

What are some symptoms of a broken bone?

If your child has a broken bone, you may notice:

• Visible deformity
• Swelling, bruising, or bleeding
• Intense pain
• Tenderness to touch at site of injury
• Numbness and tingling
• Loss of range of motion

Why choose Stanford Children’s Health to treat your child’s broken bone?

We offer same- and next-day appointments, x-ray services, and casting at our six locations around the Bay Area—helping your child get on the road to recovery quickly. Our doctors specialize in treating only kids and teens, so we will take your child’s future growth into account when caring for your child’s fracture.