Supracondylar Fracture: Understanding, Treatment, and Recovery

What is a Supracondylar Fracture?

A supracondylar fracture is a type of fracture (break) in the bone, it occurs just above the condyles of the humerus (the upper arm bone) near the elbow. This area is prone to fractures, particularly in children, due to the nature of the bone and the stresses placed on it during falls or other injuries.

Types of Supracondylar Fractures

Supracondylar fractures are primarily classified based on the extent of displacement and the direction of the fracture line. The classification system most commonly used is the Gartland classification:

Gartland Classification of Supracondylar Fractures:

  • Type I: Non-Displaced Fracture
    • Description: The bone is cracked but remains in its normal anatomical position. There is no displacement or minimal displacement of the bone fragments.
    • Treatment: Typically managed with immobilisation using a cast or splint. Surgery is not usually required.
  • Type II: Displaced Fracture with Intact Posterior Cortex
    • Description: The bone fragments are displaced, but the posterior (back) cortex of the humerus remains intact. The anterior (front) part of the bone is displaced.
    • Subtypes:
      • Type IIA: The anterior humeral line intersects the capitellum, indicating less severe displacement.
      • Type IIB: The anterior humeral line does not intersect the capitellum, indicating more severe displacement.
    • Treatment: Usually requires reduction (realignment) of the bone under sedation or anaesthesia, followed by immobilisation. In some cases, pin fixation may be necessary.
  • Type III: Completely Displaced Fracture
    • Description: The bone fragments are completely displaced, with no cortical contact. The fracture is unstable and may involve injury to the nerves and blood vessels.
    • Subtypes:
      • Type IIIA: Posteromedial displacement.
      • Type IIIB: Posterolateral displacement.
    • Treatment: This type often requires surgical intervention, with pinning or other fixation techniques to stabilise the fracture. Immediate attention is needed to assess and protect neurovascular structures.

Additional Types:

  • Type IV (sometimes added in some classifications): This involves multidirectional instability, where the fracture is unstable in both flexion and extension. Treatment is similar to Type III, with surgical intervention typically required.

Prevalence of Supracondylar Fractures

Supracondylar fractures are the most common type of elbow fractures in children, making up a significant portion of paediatric orthopaedic injuries.

Prevalence and Demographics:

  • Age Group: These fractures are particularly prevalent in children between 5 and 7 years. This is because children’s bones are still developing and more prone to fractures from falls.
  • Incidence Rate: Supracondylar fractures account for about 60-70% of all elbow fractures in children and around 3-7% of all fractures in children.
  • Gender: There is a slightly higher incidence in boys compared to girls, likely due to higher levels of physical activity and risk-taking behaviour.

Factors Contributing to Prevalence:

  • Mechanism of Injury: The most common cause is a fall onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH), which transmits force up the arm to the elbow, causing the fracture.
  • Bone Structure in Children: The supracondylar region of the humerus in children is relatively weak and prone to fractures because it is the last part of the bone to ossify (harden) during development.

Comparison to Adults:

  • In adults, supracondylar fractures are much less common. When they do occur, it is typically due to high-energy trauma,for example car accidents or falls from significant heights. In adults, the bones are fully ossified and generally stronger, reducing the likelihood of such fractures from low-energy injuries.

Symptoms and Causes

What Causes Supracondylar Fractures?

Supracondylar fractures, particularly in children, are usually caused by trauma that exerts significant force on the elbow. The most common causes include:

1. Fall Onto an Outstretched Hand (FOOSH)

This is the most frequent mechanism of injury. When a child falls, they instinctively extend their hand to break the fall. The force from the impact travels up the arm to the elbow, causing the supracondylar region of the humerus to fracture.

  • Example Scenarios: Falling off playground equipment, tripping while running, or falling from a bicycle.

2. Direct Blow to the Elbow

A direct impact to the elbow can cause a supracondylar fracture, especially if the elbow is flexed or bent at the time of impact.

  • Example Scenarios: A direct hit to the elbow during contact sports, being struck by a heavy object, or falling onto a hard surface with the elbow absorbing the impact.

3. Twisting or Rotational Injuries

Though less common, a twisting force applied to the arm can also lead to a supracondylar fracture. This might occur if the arm is twisted violently while in a vulnerable position.

  • Example Scenarios: A child’s arm being twisted during rough play or in an accident where the body rotates but the arm is held in place.

4. High-Energy Trauma

In adults, supracondylar fractures are more often the result of high-energy trauma, such as severe accidents. The forces involved are typically much greater than those that cause these fractures in children.

  • Example Scenarios: Car accidents, falls from a significant height, or industrial accidents.

5. Weakness in Bone Structure

Children have weaker bone structures in the supracondylar region of the humerus because this area is the last to ossify (harden) as they grow. This makes it more susceptible to fractures from relatively minor injuries.

  • Example Scenarios: Minor falls or impacts that wouldn’t typically cause fractures in adults.

Risk Factors for Supracondylar Fractures

The risk factors for supracondylar fractures include:

  • Age:
    • Most common in children, particularly those aged 5-7 years, due to the vulnerability of their developing bones.
  • Activity Level:
    • High levels of physical activity, especially involving running, jumping, climbing, and playing on playground equipment, increase the likelihood of falls and injuries.
  • Environmental Factors:
    • Slippery surfaces, uneven terrain, and unsafe playground equipment can lead to falls and subsequent fractures.
    • Lack of adequate supervision during activities that involve potential falls or impacts.
  • Bone Structure:
    • In children, the supracondylar region of the humerus is one of the last areas to ossify (harden), making it more prone to fractures.
  • Participation in Sports:
    • Engaging in sports or activities with a high risk of falls or impacts (e.g., gymnastics, football, cycling) increases the risk.
  • Previous Injuries:
    • A history of fractures or weakened bones can make an individual more susceptible to future fractures.
  • Lack of Protective Gear:
    • Not using protective equipment, such as elbow pads, during activities with a high risk of falls can increase the likelihood of injury.

These risk factors collectively contribute to the higher incidence of supracondylar fractures in certain populations, particularly active children.

Complications of Supracondylar Fractures

Supracondylar fractures can lead to several complications, especially if not treated promptly or properly. These complications can range from immediate issues to long-term effects. It is important to seek Urgent Care with an orthopaedic team

1. Neurovascular Injury

  • Nerve Damage: The close proximity of nerves to the fracture site can lead to injury, most commonly affecting the median, radial, or ulnar nerves. This can result in weakness, decreased sensation, or difficulty moving the hand or fingers.
  • Vascular Injury: The brachial artery, which runs near the humerus, can be damaged, leading to compromised blood flow to the forearm and hand. This can cause a condition known as Volkmann’s ischemic contracture, where prolonged lack of blood flow results in muscle damage and permanent deformity.

2. Malunion

  • If the fracture heals in an incorrect position, it can lead to malunion, where the bone heals in a deformed or misaligned manner. This can cause functional impairment, restricted movement, and visible deformity of the elbow.

3. Nonunion

  • In some cases, the bone may not heal, leading to nonunion, where the fracture fails to heal. This can result in chronic pain, instability, and the need for further surgical intervention.

4. Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion

  • Even with proper treatment, the elbow joint may become stiff. This is often due to prolonged immobilisation or scar tissue formation.

5. Compartment Syndrome

  • This is a serious condition where swelling within the muscles increases pressure within a confined space (compartment), compromising blood flow and potentially leading to muscle and nerve damage. It requires immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent damage.

6. Infection

  • If surgery is required to treat the fracture, there is a risk of infection, particularly if pins or other hardware are used. This can lead to complications in healing and may require additional treatment.

7. Growth Plate Injury (in children)

  • Supracondylar fractures can sometimes involve the growth plate (physis) in children. Damage to the physis can lead to abnormal bone growth, resulting in limb length discrepancies or angular deformities.

8. Myositis Ossificans

  • This is a condition where bone tissue forms inside the muscle after a fracture, leading to pain and stiffness in the affected area.

These complications highlight the importance of prompt and appropriate treatment for supracondylar fractures to minimise the risk of long-term damage. Access Ortho offers specialist orthopaedic care for fractures. 

Diagnosis and Tests

How are Supracondylar Fractures Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a supracondylar fracture involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. Here’s an overview of the diagnostic process:

1. Clinical Evaluation

  • History: The medical team will take a detailed history, asking about the mechanism of injury (how it occurred), the time and nature of symptoms, and any previous injuries or conditions.
  • Physical Examination:
    • Inspection: The affected elbow is examined for swelling, bruising, deformity, and any open wounds.
    • Palpation: The medical practitioner will gently feel the area around the elbow to assess for tenderness, crepitus (a crackling sensation), and any obvious deformities.
    • Range of Motion: The ability to move the elbow, wrist, and fingers is assessed. Pain and restricted motion can indicate a fracture.
    • Neurovascular Assessment: Assess for signs of nerve or blood vessel injury by checking sensation, motor function, and pulses in the hand and arm.

2. Imaging Studies

  • X-rays:
    • Standard Imaging: X-rays are the primary imaging tool used to diagnose supracondylar fractures. Anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views are typically taken to visualise the elbow fracture and assess its type and severity.
  • CT Scan or MRI (in rare cases):
    • CT Scan: This may be used if the fracture is complex or if further detail is needed to plan surgery, particularly in cases of comminuted fractures.
    • MRI: Less commonly used but may be helpful in assessing soft tissue damage, nerve injuries, or if there is suspicion of a non-displaced fracture that is not clearly visible on X-ray.

3. Additional Tests

  • Doppler Ultrasound: If there is concern about vascular injury, a Doppler ultrasound may be used to assess blood flow in the brachial artery.
  • Nerve Conduction Studies: Use if nerve damage is suspected to evaluate the extent of the injury.

Prompt and accurate diagnosis is required for effective management and to prevent complications. Access Ortho offers rapid appointments for acute fractures and sprains. 

Supracondylar fracture

Specific Considerations for Supracondylar Fractures

When dealing with supracondylar fractures, especially in children, there are several specific considerations that healthcare providers must consider to ensure proper management and prevent complications. These include:

1. Age and Bone Development

  • Growth Plates: In children, the presence of growth plates (physes) near the fracture site is a crucial consideration. Damage to these growth plates can result in long-term growth disturbances, leading to angular deformities or limb length discrepancies.
  • Bone Healing: Children’s bones heal faster than adults, so timely and proper alignment of the fracture is essential to prevent malunion.

2. Neurovascular Status

  • Nerve Injury: The close proximity of nerves, particularly the median, radial, and ulnar nerves, to the fracture site requires careful assessment. Injury to these nerves can lead to significant functional impairment.
  • Vascular Compromise: The brachial artery runs near the site of a supracondylar fracture, and injury to this artery can result in compromised blood flow to the forearm and hand. Early detection and management are critical to avoid serious complications such as Volkmann’s ischemic contracture.

3. Type and Severity of Fracture

  • Gartland Classification: The classification of the fracture (Type I, II, or III) guides treatment decisions. For instance, non-displaced fractures (Type I) may be treated with immobilisation, while displaced fractures (Type II and III) often require surgical intervention.
  • Displacement and Stability: Severely displaced fractures, especially those with multidirectional instability, may require more complex surgical approaches, including pin fixation or open reduction.

4. Timing of Treatment

  • Urgency: Timely intervention is critical, particularly in cases of displaced fractures with neurovascular compromise. Delayed treatment increases complications, such as malunion, nonunion, and permanent nerve damage.
  • Reduction Techniques: In cases requiring reduction, closed reduction is often attempted first. If unsuccessful, open reduction may be necessary. The timing of reduction and fixation is important to minimise the risk of complications.

6. Parental Guidance and Education

  • Understanding of the Condition: Educating parents about the nature of the fracture, the importance of follow-up appointments, and what signs to watch for in terms of complications (e.g., numbness, colour changes in the hand) is crucial.
  • Follow-up Care: Instructions on how to care for the cast or splint, signs of infection, and the importance of limiting certain activities during the healing process should be clearly communicated. Regular medical follow-up is essential. 

8. Psychological Considerations

  • Fear and Anxiety: Children may experience fear and anxiety related to the injury and treatment. Gentle communication, reassurance, and involving child-life specialists can help reduce stress.
  • Impact on Daily Activities: The injury may temporarily limit the child’s ability to participate in everyday activities, such as school or sports. Support and planning to accommodate these limitations are important for the child’s emotional well-being.

These considerations highlight the complexity of managing supracondylar fractures and the need for a specialist approach to optimise outcomes and minimise complications. Access Ortho is staffed by Orthopaedic specialists and offers expertise in managing these fractures. 

Management and Treatment

How are Supracondylar Fractures Treated?

Treatment of supracondylar fractures varies depending on the severity, type of fracture, and whether there are any associated complications, such as neurovascular injury. Below is an outline of both non-surgical management and surgical interventions:

Non-Surgical Management

Non-surgical treatment is typically reserved for Type I fractures (non-displaced) and some Type II fractures with minimal displacement.

  • Immobilisation
    • Cast or Splint: The arm is immobilised in a cast to hold the bone in place while it heals. The splint or cast typically extends from the upper arm to the hand, with the elbow bent at around 90 degrees.
    • Duration: Immobilisation usually lasts 3-6 weeks, depending on the patient’s age and the nature of the fracture.
  • Closed Reduction
    • Indication: For fractures with minimal displacement (Type II), a closed reduction may be performed. This involves realigning the bone without making an incision. The procedure is usually done under sedation or general anaesthesia.
    • Immobilisation Following Reduction: After reduction, the arm is immobilised in a cast to maintain alignment during healing.
  • Monitoring
    • Follow-Up X-rays: Regular X-rays are taken to ensure the fracture is healing properly and that the bones remain in the correct position.
    • Neurovascular Assessment: Continuous monitoring of nerve and blood vessel function is important, especially in the first few days following the injury, to detect any late-developing complications.
  • Pain Management
    • Medications: Pain is managed with analgesics such as panadol or ibuprofen. In some cases, prescription pain medications may be required initially.

Surgical Interventions

Surgery is generally indicated for Type II fractures with significant displacement and most Type III fractures (completely displaced). Surgery may also be required in cases of neurovascular compromise or if closed reduction is unsuccessful. If surgery is required, Access Ortho will help arrange an appointment for this. 

  • Percutaneous Pinning (Closed Reduction with Pinning)
    • Indication: This is the most common surgical treatment for displaced supracondylar fractures. After a closed reduction, pins (usually K-wires) are inserted through the skin to hold the bones in place.
    • Follow-Up: The pins are removed once the fracture has sufficiently healed, usually after a few weeks. The child is then placed in a cast for an additional period to protect the fracture.
  • Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
    • Indication: This is required when closed reduction is not possible or unsuccessful, or when there is a need to directly visualise the fracture to ensure proper alignment. It may also be necessary if there is an associated nerve or vascular injury.
    • Post-Operative Care: After surgery, the arm is immobilised in a cast, and physiotherapy may be initiated after the initial healing phase to restore range of motion.
  • Vascular Surgery
    • Indication: If there is a vascular injury (e.g., brachial artery damage), immediate surgery is necessary to repair the blood vessel. This may be performed in conjunction with fracture fixation.
  • Nerve Exploration and Repair
    • Indication: If there is significant nerve injury, surgical exploration and repair may be needed. This is more common with severe fractures or if the nerve was damaged during the initial injury.

Post-Treatment Care

  • Rehabilitation: Following non-surgical or surgical treatment, physiotherapy is often recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the elbow.
  • Activity Restrictions: Patients, especially children, are usually advised to avoid activities that could risk re-injury until the fracture is fully healed.
  • Long-Term Monitoring: For children, follow-up may include monitoring for growth disturbances, particularly if the growth plate was involved in the fracture.

With appropriate treatment, most supracondylar fractures heal well without long-term complications. However, careful management and follow-up are essential to ensure optimal outcomes and to prevent issues such as malunion, nonunion, or loss of elbow function. Access Ortho offers initial assessment and treatment and non-surgical follow-up care for fractures and sprains. Should surgery be required, Access Ortho will assist in helping to arrange this.

Supracondylar fracture
Arm Cast and sling

Prevention

How Can I Prevent Supracondylar Fractures?

To prevent supracondylar fractures, consider these strategies:

  • Safety Measures:
    • Supervise children during play and use safe, well-maintained playground equipment.
    • Ensure proper use of age-appropriate equipment.
  • Protective Gear:
    • Use elbow pads and other protective gear during high-risk activities like biking and skateboarding.
  • Education and Awareness:
    • Teach children safe play practices and the risks of rough play.
  • Home Safety:
    • Childproof the home by removing hazards and ensuring outdoor play areas are safe.
  • Proper Training:
    • Ensure sports training focuses on safety and proper techniques.
  • Health and Nutrition:
    • Provide a calcium and vitamin D diet, and encourage regular exercise for strong bones.
  • Prompt Medical Attention:
    • Address injuries quickly and seek professional evaluation for suspected fractures.

Outlook / Prognosis

After a supracondylar fracture, here’s what to expect and the typical recovery process:

Immediate Aftercare

  • Initial Treatment:
    • Immobilisation: The arm will be immobilised with a cast or splint to stabilise the fracture.
    • Pain Management: Pain and swelling are managed with medications and elevation.
  • Follow-Up:
    • X-rays: Regular follow-up visits with X-rays to monitor healing and ensure proper alignment.
    • Neurovascular Monitoring: Continuous assessment of nerve and blood vessel function.

Recovery Time

  • Non-Surgical Treatment:
    • Cast Duration: Typically 3-6 weeks, depending on the severity and age of the patient.
    • Healing Time: Full recovery often takes about 6-8 weeks, followed by a stepped return to normal activities.
  • Surgical Treatment:
    • Pin Removal: If pins are used, they are usually removed after 3-4 weeks.
    • Cast Duration: May extend to an additional 2-4 weeks after pin removal.
    • Recovery Time: Total recovery, including regaining strength and range of motion, can take 2-3 months or longer.

Rehabilitation

  • Physiotherapy:
    • Range of Motion Exercises: Begin after the initial healing phase to restore flexibility and strength.
    • Strength Training: Helps in regaining full function and preventing long-term stiffness.
  • Gradual Return to Activities:
    • Activity Restrictions: Avoid high-impact or strenuous activities until fully healed.
    • Gradual Increase: Slowly resume normal activities as advised by your healthcare provider.

Long-Term Outlook

  • Function:
    • Expected Recovery: Most people regain full function and strength if the fracture heals properly.
    • Possible Residual Issues: Some may experience minor stiffness or discomfort, which usually resolves with time and therapy.
  • Complications:
    • Monitoring for Complications: Watch for signs of malunion, nonunion, or persistent pain and consult with your doctor if any issues arise.

With appropriate treatment and follow-up care, most individuals recover well from supracondylar fractures, returning to their usual activities with minimal long-term effects. The most important thing is to get a rapid diagnosis and start an appropriate treatment plan. Access Ortho offers rapid appointments for acute injuries.

Supracondylar fracture
 Girl with elbow injury seeking medical treatment

When Should I Seek Medical Attention?

Signs that Require Immediate Care

After an elbow injury, certain signs indicate that immediate medical care is needed. These include:

1. Severe Pain or Swelling

  • Uncontrolled Pain: Pain that worsens significantly despite medication and immobilisation.
  • Excessive Swelling: Swelling that rapidly increases or does not improve with elevation.

2. Neurovascular Compromise

  • Numbness or Tingling: Change in sensation in the hand or fingers.
  • Weakness: Difficulty moving the fingers or hand, indicating potential nerve damage.
  • Change in Skin Colour: The hand or fingers turning pale, blue, or dusky, suggesting poor blood flow.

3. Loss of Pulse

  • Absent Pulse: A noticeable decrease or absence of a pulse in the wrist or hand, indicating possible vascular injury.

4. Deformity or Misalignment

  • Visible Deformity: Any change in the shape of the elbow or forearm, which may suggest displacement or malunion.

5. Fever or Redness

  • Signs of Infection: Fever, redness, or warmth around the fracture site, which could indicate infection.

6. Open Wounds

  • Wound Exposure: Any break in the skin around the fracture site requires immediate treatment to prevent infection.

7. Restricted Blood Flow

  • Cold Extremities: The affected arm feels cold or has a different temperature compared to the other arm.

8. Increased Functional Impairment

  • Difficulty Performing Daily Activities: Worsening ability to use the arm for normal functions despite treatment and immobilisation.

9. Persistent Symptoms Despite Treatment

  • No Improvement: Lack of progress or worsening symptoms despite following treatment and care instructions.

If any of these signs are present, seek immediate medical attention. 

Understanding Fracture Clinics

Role of Fracture Clinics in Supracondylar Fracture Management

Fracture clinics play a crucial role in the management of supracondylar fractures. Some Fracture clinics or Urgent Care centres only offer assessment and immediate care. Access Ortho provides assessment, immediate care and all non-surgical follow-up care throughout your recovery. If you have a musculoskeletal injury, it is important to seek expert orthopedic care. Access Ortho is staffed by orthopaedic specialists. 

Here’s how fracture clinics help ensure effective treatment and recovery:

1. Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

  • Comprehensive Evaluation: Fracture clinics provide specialised assessment of the injury, including clinical evaluation and referral and review of imaging studies (e.g., X-rays).
  • Diagnosis Confirmation: They confirm the type and severity of the fracture, which guides the treatment plan.

2. Treatment Planning and Implementation

  • Non-Surgical Management: For non-displaced fractures, fracture clinics manage immobilisation with casts or splints and monitor progress.
  • Surgical Planning: Access Ortho will assist with a timely referral and finding a surgeon for surgery for displaced or complex fractures. 

3. Ongoing Monitoring and Follow-Up

  • Regular Check-Ups: Access Ortho schedules follow-up appointments with Orthopaedic consultants to monitor healing through repeat X-rays and assessment of the fracture’s alignment.
  • Adjustments: They adjust treatment plans as needed, including cast adjustments or review of allowed activities.

4. Complication Management

  • Early Detection: Access Ortho will identify and address complications such as malunion, nonunion, or neurovascular issues.
  • Specialist Referrals: If needed, Access Ortho will refer patients to specialists such as neurologists or for rehabilitation with a physiotherapist or occupational therapist. 

Access Ortho ensures that patients receive expert care, timely treatment, and ongoing support, which is essential for optimal recovery and management of supracondylar fractures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Supracondylar Fractures

What are the most common symptoms of a supracondylar fracture?

The most noted symptoms following a supracondylar fracture are: 

  • Severe pain around the elbow, especially with movement.
  • Noticeable swelling around the elbow joint.
  • Bruising in the area of the fracture.
  • Visible deformity or misalignment of the elbow.
  • Difficulty moving the elbow, wrist, or hand.
  • Numbness or tingling in the hand, indicating potential nerve involvement.

If you have any of these symptoms, seek medical care from somewhere like Access Ortho

How is a supracondylar fracture different from other elbow fractures?

The location, mechanism of injury, and complications that can occur differ in supracondylar fractures from other elbow fractures. 

Location: Supracondylar fractures occur just above the elbow joint, while other elbow fractures may involve the radius, ulna, or the elbow joint itself.

Complications: Supracondylar fractures have a higher risk of neurovascular injury due to their proximity to major nerves and blood vessels.

Mechanism of Injury: Supracondylar fractures are often caused by falls on an outstretched hand, whereas other elbow fractures may result from direct trauma or twisting.

Are supracondylar fractures more common in children or adults?

Supracondylar fractures are significantly more common in children, especially between ages 2 and 7, due to their higher activity levels and less mature bone structure.

What is the Gartland classification for supracondylar fractures?

The Gartland classification has three different types:

  • Type I: Non-displaced fractures.
  • Type II: Displaced fractures with intact posterior cortex; angulated but not completely displaced.
  • Type III: Completely displaced fractures with no contact between the fracture ends.
How long does it take for a supracondylar fracture to heal?

Healing time for supracondylar fractures depends on whether it needs surgery or not. 

  • Non-Surgical Treatment: Typically, the fracture takes 6-8 weeks to heal.
  • Surgical Treatment: Healing time is similar, but full recovery, including strength and range of motion, may take 2-3 months or longer.
Will my child need surgery for a supracondylar fracture?

Surgery is often required for displaced fractures (Type II and III) or if there are complications such as neurovascular injury. Non-displaced fractures (Type I) are usually managed with casting. Therefore, it is essential to get orthopaedic specialist care to ensure that the proper diagnosis is made so the correct treatment can be started.

What are some potential long-term effects of a supracondylar fracture?

The potential long-term effects of supracondylar fractures are:

  • Stiffness: Reduced range of motion or joint stiffness.
  • Malunion or Nonunion: Improper or failure to heal correctly.
  • Growth Plate Issues: In children, potential disturbances affecting limb length or alignment.
  • Functional Impairment: Long-term pain or difficulty using the arm.
  • Neurovascular Damage: Persistent issues if nerves or blood vessels were injured.
How can I care for my child at home after a supracondylar fracture?

After your child has a supracondylar fracture, it is essential to:

  • Follow Medical advice: Keep the cast or splint dry and intact and ensure your child does not remove it.
  • Pain Management: Administer pain medications as directed.
  • Elevation: Elevate the arm to reduce swelling.
  • Activity Restrictions: Limit activities to prevent stress on the healing bone.
  • Monitoring: Watch for signs of complications such as increased pain or changes in hand colour or sensation.
When can my child return to sports after a supracondylar fracture?

Generally, after 2-3 months, once the fracture has healed and range of motion and strength have been restored, your child can return to sport. Obtain clearance from the treating medical team before resuming sports.

What exercises help in recovering from a supracondylar fracture?

The following exercises may be prescribed to help you gain normal function after a supracondylar fracture. You must discuss any exercise program with your medical team before starting. 

  • Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretches to regain movement in the elbow and wrist.
  • Strengthening Exercises: Gradual strengthening of the arm and shoulder muscles.
  • Grip Strengthening: Exercises to improve hand and grip strength.
  • Physiotherapist Guidance: Follow a physiotherapist’s recommendations for specific exercises tailored to the recovery stage.