Signs of a Broken Bone

Bones, as we know them, are not rigid in nature. They undergo various physiological processes of repair and regeneration. They play a very important part in the proper functioning of our body. Bones together form a human skeleton. An adult human skeleton contains 206 bones but a new born baby has 300 bones. These eventually tend to form 206 bones as they grow up. The bones of babies are probably made up of smaller and softer parts. Over the time they turn into harder and bigger bones. This process is called ossification. But before the bones harden up, babies can have a fracture very easily. So care must be taken while lifting a small baby. Although they have soft bones, there are still a lot of risks of having fractured bones.

To determine a fracture in a small baby is a bit difficult. It could be a sprain also. If your baby gets injured, the best thing is to put icepack around the injury.

You will notice a swelling, but that will reduce by ice pack application. If the injury is worse and your baby is crying with pain, you must go to the doctor for medical help.

Here are some sign of broken bone which will help you in the assessment of fracture in a baby:

1. A snapping sound is heard if the bone breaks.

2. The injured area becomes tender.

3. The fractured part becomes shallow.

4. Severe pain with inflammation.

5. The pain increases with any movement.

6. Bleeding of bones and tissues.

7. Deformed shape of the limb.

8. The child will refuse to stand or walk

If you see any of the above symptoms of a fracture, see a doctor as soon as possible.