Children’s bones are different from adult bones in one important way—they’re still growing. The areas of active bone growth, called growth plates, are located near the ends of long bones in the arms, legs, and other areas. While these plates allow bones to lengthen as children grow, they are also more vulnerable to injury.
Understanding how growth plate injuries occur, what symptoms to watch for, and how they’re treated can help ensure your child receives the right care at the right time.
What Are Growth Plates?
Growth plates (also known as epiphyseal plates) are made of soft cartilage and are found near the ends of long bones in children and adolescents. These plates determine the future length and shape of a child’s bones and are the last parts of the bones to harden into solid bone, making them more susceptible to injury.
Growth plates typically close after puberty—around age 14 for girls and age 16 for boys.
Common Causes of Growth Plate Injuries
Growth plate injuries are often caused by:
- Sports Injuries: High-impact sports like football, basketball, gymnastics, or skating can stress joints and lead to injury.
- Falls: A simple fall off a bike or on the playground can damage the soft cartilage of the growth plate.
- Repetitive Stress: Overuse from activities like pitching in baseball or long-distance running may lead to overuse injuries in the growth plate area.
- Trauma: Accidents, like car crashes or severe sprains, can lead to fractures through or around the growth plate.
Symptoms of Growth Plate Injuries
Symptoms vary depending on the bone affected and the severity of the injury, but common signs include:
- Persistent pain or tenderness near a joint
- Swelling or warmth around the affected area
- Difficulty moving the limb or joint normally
- Inability to bear weight or use the limb
- Visible deformity or uneven growth if left untreated
If your child complains of pain that doesn’t improve in a few days, especially after a fall or sports injury, it’s essential to get it checked.
Diagnosis of Growth Plate Injuries
A pediatric orthopedic specialist will typically begin with:
- Physical Examination: To assess swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.
- X-rays: Often the first imaging tool used, though some growth plate injuries might not show up on X-rays immediately.
- MRI or Ultrasound: Used if the X-ray is inconclusive but symptoms persist, as these can show cartilage and soft tissues in greater detail.
Types of Growth Plate Fractures (Salter-Harris Classification)
Growth plate injuries are classified into five types (I to V) based on how the fracture affects the growth plate and surrounding bone. This classification helps determine treatment and prognosis.
- Type I: Through the growth plate
- Type II: Through the growth plate and metaphysis (most common)
- Type III: Through the growth plate and epiphysis
- Type IV: Through all three – metaphysis, growth plate, and epiphysis
- Type V: Crush injury to the growth plate (rarest and most serious)
Treatment Options for Growth Plate Injuries
Treatment depends on the severity, type, and location of the injury. Options include:
1. Immobilization
Most mild growth plate fractures heal well with rest, a splint or cast, and limited activity. These are especially effective for Type I and II fractures.
2. Closed Reduction
If the bone is displaced, the doctor may need to gently realign it without surgery before applying a cast.
3. Surgery
More serious injuries (Types III, IV, V) may require surgical intervention to align and stabilize the bone using wires, screws, or plates—especially if the injury crosses the joint or risks affecting bone growth.
4. Physical Therapy
Post-treatment rehabilitation may help restore strength, range of motion, and function.
Why Timely Treatment Is Essential
Left untreated, growth plate injuries can cause:
- Stunted or uneven limb growth
- Permanent deformity
- Chronic pain or arthritis in the affected joint
Follow-up care is crucial, as growth plate injuries need monitoring over time to ensure the bone continues to grow normally.
Why Choose Child OrthoCare?
At Child OrthoCare, we understand the delicate nature of growing bones. Dr. Nargesh Agrawal, an experienced Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon, uses advanced imaging and child-friendly techniques to accurately diagnose and treat growth plate injuries—ensuring minimal long-term impact and a smooth recovery.
We prioritize early intervention, personalized care, and family guidance to support your child’s full return to normal activity.
Visit Us:
Child OrthoCare Clinic
Call Us: +91-9873191340
Worried About a Recent Injury? Don’t Delay.
If your child has pain, swelling, or trouble using a limb after an injury, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Nargesh Agrawal today.
Early treatment of growth plate injuries can make all the difference for your child’s healthy development.
