How to care for a child with a fracture after removing the plaster

After the plaster is removed from a child's fracture, the key to care is to gradually restore the child's ability to move, avoid secondary injuries, and promote bone healing. Care methods include moderate activity, nutritional supplements, and regular checkups.

1. Moderate activity

After the plaster is removed, the child's affected limb may become stiff due to long-term immobilization, and the child needs to gradually restore the ability to move. You can start with simple joint movements, such as gently bending the fingers, toes or wrists, and avoid strenuous exercise. Parents can assist their children in passive activities to help muscles and joints regain flexibility. Be careful to move gently to avoid excessive force that may cause pain or injury. As recovery progresses, the range of motion and intensity can be gradually increased, but this must be done under the guidance of a doctor.

2. Nutritional supplements

Fracture healing requires adequate nutritional support, especially calcium, vitamin D and protein. Give your child more calcium-rich foods, such as milk, soy products, fish and green leafy vegetables. Vitamin D helps calcium absorption, which can be supplemented by getting enough sun or eating egg yolks, fish, etc. Protein is an important raw material for bone repair, and eggs, lean meat and beans are all high-quality sources. Avoid excessive intake of high-sugar and high-salt foods to avoid affecting bone health.

3. Regular review

After the cast is removed, regular checkups are an important step to ensure that the fracture is healing well. The doctor will use X-rays to check the bone healing and assess whether further treatment or adjustments to the rehabilitation plan are needed. If your child has any abnormalities such as pain, swelling, or limited movement, they should see a doctor promptly. During the checkup, parents can ask the doctor about rehabilitation exercises to ensure that the child recovers smoothly.

4. Psychological support

The fracture recovery period may make children feel anxious or depressed, and parents need to provide adequate psychological support. Encourage children to maintain a positive attitude and participate in activities within their ability, such as painting, reading, etc., to divert their attention. Communicate with children, understand their feelings, and help them overcome their fear of activities. If the child continues to be depressed, you can consider seeking professional psychological counseling.

The care of children after the plaster is removed from their fractures requires patience and care. Appropriate activities, nutritional supplements, regular checkups and psychological support can help children recover smoothly. Parents should pay close attention to their children's recovery and communicate with doctors in a timely manner to ensure that the recovery process is safe and effective.