Salter-Harris Type IV physeal fracture of calcaneus Save

Understanding Salter-Harris Type IV Physeal Fracture of Calcaneus

A Salter-Harris Type IV physeal fracture of the calcaneus, also known as a Salter-Harris IV fracture or a growth plate fracture, is a rare but serious injury that can occur in children and adolescents. The calcaneus bone is one of the largest bones in the foot, and it is located at the back of the heel. This type of fracture affects the growth plate of the calcaneus, which is the area of cartilage near the end of the bone where new bone growth occurs.

Salter-Harris Type IV fractures occur when there is a compression injury to the growth plate, which can cause the bone to break unevenly. This type of fracture is often caused by a high-impact injury, such as a fall from a height or a sports-related injury. Symptoms of a Salter-Harris Type IV fracture may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot.

Treatment and Recovery

If your child has been diagnosed with a Salter-Harris Type IV fracture of the calcaneus, it is important to seek prompt medical attention. Treatment for this type of fracture typically involves immobilizing the affected foot in a cast or brace to allow the bone to heal. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the bone and promote proper healing.

Recovery from a Salter-Harris Type IV fracture can take several weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the injury. During this time, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions for rest, rehabilitation, and physical therapy. Your child may need to use crutches or a wheelchair to avoid putting weight on the affected foot, and they may need to wear a special shoe or brace to support the healing bone.

Prevention

While it is not always possible to prevent a Salter-Harris Type IV fracture of the calcaneus, there are steps you can take to reduce your child's risk of injury. Encourage your child to wear proper footwear that fits well and provides adequate support, especially during sports and other high-impact activities. Make sure your child understands the importance of warming up before exercise and using proper technique to avoid falls and other accidents.

1. Wear proper footwear that fits well and provides adequate support
2. Warm up before exercise and use proper technique to avoid falls and other accidents
3. Avoid high-impact activities that increase the risk of injury
4. Supervise your child during playtime and encourage safe play habits
5. Teach your child how to recognize and report symptoms of injury