Children are not just “small adults.” Their bones are still growing, which makes them unique—and more vulnerable—to certain types of injuries. One of the most important parts of a child’s bone is the growth plate. Damage here can affect not only the healing process but also your child’s future height and limb development.
What Are Growth Plates?
Growth plates (also called epiphyseal plates) are areas of developing cartilage located near the ends of long bones such as the femur, tibia, radius, and humerus.
- They are softer and weaker than surrounding bone, which makes them more prone to injury.
- Growth plates determine how bones grow in length and shape.
- Once a child reaches skeletal maturity (around 14–16 years for girls, 16–18 years for boys), growth plates close and turn into solid bone.
How Do Growth Plate Injuries Happen?
Growth plate injuries usually occur due to:
- Sports injuries (falls, twists, or collisions)
- Accidents (such as falls from height or road traffic accidents)
- Repetitive stress from activities like gymnastics or long-distance running
- Infections or medical conditions affecting bone health
These injuries are common during rapid growth phases, especially between ages 10–16.
Symptoms of Growth Plate Injuries
Parents should look out for:
- Persistent pain or tenderness near the joint
- Swelling and bruising around the bone ends
- Difficulty moving the affected limb
- A noticeable limp or refusal to bear weight
- Deformity or angulation in severe cases
If your child experiences any of these after an injury, immediate medical evaluation is necessary.
Can Growth Plate Injuries Affect Height?
Yes. Because growth plates are responsible for bone length, any injury here can impact future growth:
- Mild Injuries: Often heal well with proper treatment and don’t affect height.
- Severe or Untreated Injuries: May cause early closure of the growth plate, leading to:
- Shorter limb length (limb length discrepancy)
- Abnormal angulation or deformity
- Asymmetry in growth compared to the other limb
Early diagnosis and treatment greatly reduce the chances of long-term complications.
Treatment Options
- Rest, Ice, and Immobilization: For minor injuries with no displacement.
- Casting or Splinting: To protect and stabilize the area while it heals.
- Physiotherapy: Helps restore mobility and strength after immobilization.
- Surgery: In cases where the bone is displaced, severely damaged, or growth is at risk.
Regular follow-ups with X-rays are often needed to monitor bone growth until the child reaches maturity.
Prevention Tips for Parents
- Encourage protective gear during sports.
- Teach children proper techniques for safe play.
- Ensure a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D for healthy bone growth.
- Pay attention to any injury near joints—even if it looks minor.
Conclusion
Growth plate injuries are common in children and adolescents, but with early detection and proper care, most heal without long-term problems. However, severe or untreated injuries can affect a child’s future height and limb development.
For specialized care and expert guidance, consult Dr. Nargesh Agrawal at Child OrthoCare.
Address: C-7, Ground Floor, D- Park, Model Town -3, New Delhi 110009
Mobile: +91 88517 77145
Website: www.childorthocare.online
