User:Mr. Ibrahem/Toddler's fracture

Toddler's fracture is a type of broken bone that involves the lower part of the shin bone (tibia). Symptoms may include pain in the lower leg or a limp. Some refuse to walk at all.

The cause is often a twisting motion over a planted foot. This may occur as the result tripping or other minor events. It generally occurs in the distal thirds of the tibia, is undisplaced, and has a spiral pattern. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms and examination, with initial X-rays appearing normal in about half of cases.

Treatment is often by limiting movement of the affected leg by splinting or casting for 3 to 4 weeks. Casting may occur above or below the knee. Some just allow healing without immobilization. Outcomes are nearly always good.

Toddler's fracture is relatively common, making up about 1.5 per thousand visits by children to the emergency department. It most commonly occurs in people between the age of 9 months and 3 years. It was first described in 1964 by Dunbar. There were previously concerns of an association with non accidental trauma; however, this is very rarely present.