Broken fingers in young children

[isam64]

My son is 10 years old. The orthopedist is pretty sure he broke his thumb by the growth plate. He is currently in a cast and is to be reevaluated next week to make sure it is broken and not sprained. Assuming that it is broken, what is the healing period for a boy his age? He plays travel team baseball and is a catcher primarily for the team. Should he be expected to be out the entire summer season? And if it is sprained, what is the usual course of action in that case?

[Dr Vinod]

Go for an X-ray for confirmation of the fracture. 4 weeks he will be fine, and at his age healing would be faster, give him milk and other sufficient protein as advised. If he has stiffness he should do some physiotherapy for 2 weeks. If healing is normal and everything goes as per plan in 6 weeks he should be back to sports and slowly he can exert himself. Keep the orthopaedician informed of his plans as it helps during treatment. Take care!

[isam64]

Thank you for your response to my question. It is very much appreciated.