Shaft Fracture (forearm) - Child

What has happened?

Your child has broken one or both bones in their arm
This type of break is common in children, and normally heals well in a cast without an operation

Your child may have needed to have the bone ends but back into place by Emergency Department (ED) staff - this will help the bone heal in the correct placement
They will be placed in a cast for approximately 6 weeks, usually to above their elbow
They may develop bruising and/or swelling in their fingers - this is normal and usually settles with the use of elevation

Ensure your child is wearing their sling at all times - the cast can be quite heavy for them and the sling helps protect the break
If your child seems to be in pain, they should be given simple pain relief (e.g. paracetamol and ibuprofen)
It may be more comfortable for them to prop their arm up on pillows when they are sitting or sleeping
Keep the cast dry by covering it with a plastic bag and securing it with tape while showering - a wet cast will become soggy and lose its shape

Your child should avoid contact sports and activities (e.g. rugby, trampoline, play fighting) while in the cast

Yes, a follow-up appointment in the Orthopaedic Clinic will be requested when you leave the Emergency Department (ED) and you will be contacted about a date and time

If your injury is not settling or you are worried about how it is healing, please see your GP - take your ACC form/number with you
Please seek medical attention if you experience the following:
- Increasing pain in the arm or hand
- Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
- Your fingers go cold or turn blue white, in comparison to the other hand