This fracture involves the growth plate — the area of developing cartilage near the end of a child's bone. Growth plate injuries are watched extra closely because, in rare cases, they can affect how the bone continues to grow. This is why your child's surgeon may recommend follow-up over several months.
This page explains how a physeal (growth plate) fracture of the distal radius is commonly managed, in plain language, based on Dr. Kee's typical approach to this injury.
Every fracture is different. Treatment varies based on the exact fracture pattern, displacement, age, whether surgery is needed, bone quality, other injuries, and how an individual heals. This page is general education, not your child's personal treatment plan — always follow the specific instructions given to you by Dr. Kee's office.
This fracture involves the growth plate — the area of developing cartilage near the end of a child's bone. Growth plate injuries are watched extra closely because, in rare cases, they can affect how the bone continues to grow. This is why your child's surgeon may recommend follow-up over several months.
Growth-plate injuries often heal quickly, but selected patterns deserve later surveillance for growth arrest.
This fracture is generally treated without surgery. Instead, it is protected in a cast, splint, or brace so the bone can heal in a good position on its own.
A short-arm cast (SAC) for about 4 weeks, then the cast is removed and the wrist is gently mobilized.
No weight bearing (limb use) through the arm for about 6 weeks.
For a full explanation of what these weight-bearing terms mean, see our Weight-Bearing Guide.
No resistance or strengthening (NRM) for about 6 weeks.
Usually not required initially; begin motion after immobilization if healing is satisfactory.
Weekly alignment X-rays for the first 3 weeks to confirm the bone is healing in good position. After that, your child's growth plate is monitored periodically (roughly every 3 months) until it's clear the growth plate is developing normally — this is sometimes tracked using markers on X-ray called Park-Harris lines.
Every fracture moves through the same general phases, though the exact timing is different for every patient:
School: School as tolerated with protection; avoid lifting and fall-risk activity until cleared.
Sports or High-Risk Activity: Usually 6–8 weeks, after painless motion and healing.
Loss of reduction, worsening deformity, neurovascular symptoms, open injury, or later asymmetric growth.
See our full When to Call page for the difference between routine office contact and emergency evaluation.
A short-arm cast (SAC) for about 4 weeks, then the cast is removed and the wrist is gently mobilized.
Your surgeon will guide when it's safe to return to these activities based on how your specific fracture is healing. Follow the instructions given specifically to you.
Every fracture heals differently. If you have questions about your treatment plan, reach out to Dr. Kee's office.