What is a Greenstick Fracture?
A greenstick fracture is a type of bone break seen mainly in children. In this injury, the bone bends and cracks on one side, while the opposite side stays intact. This happens because children’s bones are more flexible than adults’, much like how a fresh green twig bends and splinters without breaking completely.
Why Do Greenstick Fractures Happen?
Greenstick fractures usually happen from:
- Falling onto an outstretched hand (common in playground accidents)
- Sports injuries
- Direct blows or knocks to the arm or leg
Children are more likely to get this type of fracture because:
- Their bones are softer and bend more easily
- The outer layer of bone (called the periosteum) is thicker and stronger
Which Bones Are Affected Most?
These fractures often occur in:
- The forearm bones (radius and ulna)
- The upper arm (humerus)
- Lower leg bones (tibia and fibula)
- Fingers and toes (phalanges)
What Are the Signs and Symptoms?
- Pain and swelling
- Bruising or tenderness
- A visible bend in the arm or leg
- Difficulty moving the affected limb
If your child has any of these symptoms after a fall or injury, seek medical advice.
How Is It Diagnosed?
A doctor will examine your child’s injury and usually order an X-ray. This will show a clear crack on one side of the bone, and the other side may look curved or bent. In some cases, an ultrasound may be used—it’s gentle and doesn’t involve radiation.
How Is It Treated?
- Immobilisation (keeping the bone still):
- Most greenstick fractures need to be kept in place using a cast or splint for around 4–8 weeks.
- A full cast (plaster or fibreglass) may be used, often starting from the hand to above the elbow.
- Some children may only need a soft bandage or removable splint, especially if the fracture is mild.
- Realignment (if the bone is bent too much):
- Sometimes the bone needs to be gently pushed back into place before casting. This is called a closed reduction.
- Your child may be given pain relief or sedation for this.
- Surgery (rare):
- Surgery may be needed if:
- The fracture is badly bent or unstable
- The bone cannot stay in place with a cast
- There is nerve or blood vessel injury
Surgical options include using small pins or flexible nails to keep the bone in position while it heals.
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
- Most children heal fully within 6–8 weeks.
- Regular check-ups and X-rays are needed to ensure the bone is healing straight.
- Young children can often correct small bends in the bone naturally as they grow. This is called bone remodeling.
Are There Any Risks or Complications?
While most children recover well, complications can include:
- The bone shifting out of place again (called loss of reduction)
- The same bone breaking again (refracture)
- The bone healing in the wrong position (malunion)
- Temporary stiffness or weakness after the cast is removed
- Rarely, problems with bone growth if the injury is near a growth plate
What Can Parents and Carers Do?
- Follow instructions about cast care and activity limits
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Encourage gentle movement once advised by the doctor
- Watch for signs of complications (e.g. increased pain, numbness, swelling, or changes in skin colour)
When to Seek Urgent Help
Contact your doctor or attend A&E if:
- The cast feels too tight or painful
- Fingers or toes become pale, cold, or tingly
- There is increasing pain not relieved by medicine
- The limb looks bent again after the injury
Questions You May Have
Will my child’s arm/leg be as strong as before?
Yes, once healed, your child should regain full strength and use of the limb.
Can this happen again?
Yes. Greenstick fractures are less stable than other minor fractures and can happen again, especially if the child falls or returns to sports too soon.
Is this a serious injury?
It’s common and usually not serious if treated properly. Close monitoring helps prevent problems.
Need More Information or Support?
Visit www.TheArmDoc.co.uk for resources, recovery tips, and videos.
To book an appointment or speak with a specialist:
Call 020 3384 5588
Email Info@TheArmDoc.co.uk
Disclaimer:
This leaflet provides general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider.