Buckle fracture

Distal radius and/or Ulna This is a specific type of fracture that occurs in children’s bones

Healing

This normally takes approximately 3-6 weeks to heal. It is normal for it to continue to ache a little for a few weeks after this. . Younger children normally get better quicker

Pain and swelling

Taking pain medication and elevating their wrist will help. This is usually only needed in the first few days Using the arm: It is ok to use and move the arm for normal tasks such as getting dressed and gentle play, writing etc. avoid any high impact activities where there is a chance of falling on it such as trampolining, scooters, football, bikes etc for 6 weeks. 

The Cast

The soft cast helps their pain by keeping the arm still. They will be in the soft cast for 3-4 weeks and then it can be removed at home following the instructions below. Follow up: Normally we do not follow up patients with this type of injury as they heal well. If after 6 weeks your child still has significant pain or swelling please contact us using the details listed below. Any questions: If you are concerned about your child’s symptoms or are unable to follow this rehabilitation plan please contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic team.

Caring for your injury: Week 0-6
Removing the cast

Cut off the cast with normal scissors

Cutting off bandage

Open the cast and slide the arm out If it is too difficult to cut the cast

Arm out of cast

Soak the cast for 10 minutes in a basin of water or in the bath as part of bath time. Then unroll the cast. 

unrolling the cast

Find the end of the roll of the cast and unroll the coloured strip. This may need a few tugs as it will be sticky- this will not affect the healed fracture. Keep unwrapping till there is no coloured bandage left, then slip off any padding. The bandage and padding can be thrown away in a normal bin.

Frequently asked questions
My child reports their cast feels too tight. What do I do?

Make sure they are elevating their arm enough to keep the swelling down. Check that they are still able to wriggle their fingers and they are a good colour. If you are worried about their hand circulation or need more advice contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic Team or Plaster Room. There number is: 01903 205111 extension 85445.

My child’s symptoms have changed. What do I do?

If they have any of these symptoms, please get in touch

  • Increasing joint pain

  • Increasing swelling with difficulty to bend the fingers/thumb

  • Hypersensitivity to touching the skin

  • Shiny/red skin

  • Increased hair growth on skin

  • A sensation of the hand not belonging to you

When can my child return to sport?

There is a small increased risk of injury for up to 12 weeks, however most children can return to full sports at 4-6 weeks post injury. Non-contact spots e.g swimming can be started as soon as your child is comfortable.

How do I contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic?

Call: 01228 814898

 

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For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:

pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818

If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:

complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302