How to Look After a Child With a Broken Tibia at Home
A shinbone, or tibia, fracture is the most common type of long bone fracture that can occur, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Tibia fractures are common in children and can be the result of sports injuries, tripping and falling or a motor vehicle accident. Treatment for a tibia fracture may include surgery or immobilization. During this time, your child will require special care to help promote healing and avoid further injury.
A child with a broken leg laying in a hospital bed. (Image: ERproductions Ltd/Blend Images/Getty Images)Step 1
Find out your child's weight-bearing status from the doctor. If your child is allowed to walk on her leg, you may need a special shoe to help prevent the cast from breaking. If your child is not allowed to place weight on her leg, you may be provided with crutches or a walker at the hospital. You also can rent a wheelchair from a medical supply company if your child is having trouble with crutches or a walker.
Step 2
Remove safety hazards from your house. Make sure there are no rugs or electrical cords that could cause your child to trip while using crutches or a walker.
Step 3
Give your child a sponge bath daily. Staying clean can help prevent infection, especially if your child has had surgery. It is important to remember not to get the cast wet. A wet cast can cause skin irritation.
Step 4
Elevate your child's leg with a pillow or two while she sleeps, watches TV or is resting on the couch. Elevation can help reduce swelling.
Step 5
Provide your child with activities to prevent boredom. Gather some of his favorite DVDs, coloring books, games or books to help keep your child entertained.
Step 6
Keep a close eye on your child's cast. Make sure your child does not place anything down the cast. Look for signs of skin irritation, blue-colored toes and lack of movement in your child's toes. If anything does not seem right, contact your child's doctor.
Step 7
Keep your child as cool as possible. Sweating can make a cast uncomfortable. If your child's leg is warm or itchy, blow cold air with a hair dryer into the cast.
Things You'll Need
Pillows
Crutches, walker or wheelchair
