Concerns About My Son's Healing Leg
Greetings! I have a concern regarding my three-year-old son. On May 1st, while jumping on a trampoline, his older brother, who is six, accidentally landed on his right leg, resulting in breaks in both his tibia and fibula. The fractures were significantly displaced. Upon our visit to the emergency room, the medical staff initially indicated that an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) would likely be necessary. However, the treatment plan quickly shifted to a closed reduction instead. He was placed in a cast for a duration of six weeks, during which he was instructed not to bear any weight on that leg. The cast was removed two weeks ago, and since then, he has become quite active. He participated in a parade on his trike, has been walking throughout our home, exploring multiple museums, and continues to attend physical therapy sessions twice weekly. Despite this progress, I've noticed that there is still some swelling at the fracture site along with tenderness when touched, which his physical therapist found unusual. My primary concern is the appearance of his leg. It appears markedly curved compared to his other leg, and I am genuinely worried about the potential for malunion. While I understand that some atrophy and asymmetry can occur after a period of immobilization, this does not seem merely like a loss of soft tissue to me. When I addressed my worries with his doctor, I felt dismissed; he simply stated, "No, there’s no curve." With the treatment phase complete, our next appointment is only scheduled for check-up X-rays in six months and then another in a year. I will share images in the comments showing the initial X-rays and the concerning curvature. I would greatly appreciate any insights on whether this level of angulation appears normal, or if pursuing a second opinion might be warranted. Thank you for your support!
Answers (1)
7/12/2025, 2:10:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable that you’re concerned about your son’s recovery, particularly with the changes you’ve observed in his leg and the tenderness at the fracture site. Given the nature of pediatric fractures and healing, it’s essential to approach this situation carefully.
Summary of Main Points:
- Your son's tenderness and swelling following his leg fracture may need further evaluation, especially if you notice curvature in his leg.
- Post-fracture changes can include swelling and some angulation, but persistent concerns warrant attention.
- Considering a second opinion may be a wise approach to address your concerns.
Explanation:
After a fracture, children often experience swelling and discomfort as they heal. However, residual tenderness and any noticeable curvature in the leg can signal the need for further investigation. While mild angulation can be typical in some cases, significant deviations from normal alignment—especially if worsening—is not uncommon. The fact that your physical therapist noted this unusually may suggest a need for reevaluation.
Next Steps:
-
Document Changes: Keep a detailed record of your son’s symptoms, including swelling, tenderness, and any changes in leg appearance. Photos can be particularly helpful for comparisons over time.
-
Monitor Activity: Encourage your son to continue engaging in age-appropriate activities but remain observant of any discomfort or increased pain during use.
-
Second Opinion: Given your concerns and the dismissal you felt from the doctor, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a pediatric orthopedic specialist. They can provide a thorough assessment and potentially recommend follow-up imaging or interventions if necessary.
-
Communicate Concerns: When seeking a second opinion, clearly communicate your observations and concerns. Bring along any previous medical records, including X-ray images that illustrate the initial injury and changes over time.
Keeping a close eye on his healing process while advocating for further evaluation is crucial, and you are right to prioritize your concerns about his long-term recovery. If you ever feel unsure, don't hesitate to pursue additional input from a healthcare provider who understands your worries.
Related Questions
Underwent Appendectomy Recently
As a 16-year-old male, I recently underwent an appendectomy that took around two and a half hours to complete. Currently, I'm experiencing intense abdominal pain and have a drainage bag connected to one of my incisions to collect fluids. Movement is extremely challenging for me, as I find it difficult to both walk and lie down comfortably.
Should I Have Pursued a Scan After Falling on Ice?
As a 24-year-old man standing at 6 feet 5 inches, I hope my details meet the necessary criteria. In early January, I encountered a slippery patch of ice while stepping out of my home to retrieve something from my vehicle. I lost my footing, fell, and made contact with the ground. Although I felt slightly disoriented for about five seconds, I managed to regain my composure and stood up. After returning indoors, I noticed a headache starting to develop, so I decided to take some ibuprofen. I changed out of my pajamas and drove myself to the hospital. Upon my arrival, a physician evaluated my condition by conducting a series of reaction and motor skill assessments. To my surprise, he also included a balance test, which I passed—much to my astonishment. The doctor concluded that, from what he observed, I was in good shape, apart from the expected minor brain effects associated with a fall like mine. He deemed a CT scan unnecessary. I was taken aback by this assessment, but I returned home, took it easy, and continued to take ibuprofen. A few days later, I felt mostly fine aside from a noticeable bump on my head and the absence of any concussion symptoms. However, I can't shake the question of whether I should have insisted on a scan or accepted the doctor’s decision. While I believe I’m alright now, a nagging worry lingers in my mind that something might still be amiss. I find myself wondering if that bump altered my speech or memory, or if I’ve always had these issues and am now attributing them to the fall. At times, I reflect on the potential dangers of that day, considering how things could have turned out differently. Yet, here I am, alive and continuing with my daily job responsibilities. I wonder if a CT scan might have revealed anything significant, but I also recognize that there's likely little I could have done had it shown something serious. I've experienced concussions before, which prompted scans, but I’ve never felt as anxious about my health as I do now, six months after the incident.
Persistent Muscle Issues: Seeking Answers After a Decade Without a Diagnosis
In March 2015, at the age of 26, I began experiencing unexplained muscle issues. As a former Division 1 athlete and professional baseball player in excellent physical condition, this was unexpected for me. - I frequently endure severe muscle cramps, such as when I twist to reach for toilet paper, causing an intense and sharp pain in my rib area. Other muscles are prone to similar cramping episodes. - The fatigue in my eye muscles is overwhelming, making it difficult to keep them open. This symptom is, without a doubt, the most debilitating as it leaves me feeling perpetually exhausted and unable to function properly. - I easily experience muscle soreness and fatigue; for instance, after reaching overhead for just a few seconds, I feel an intense burning sensation in my shoulder and forearm. - Muscle spasms happen quite readily. A sudden movement can trigger spasms in my back or other areas, and these can persist and be painfully sore for up to two to three days. - Interestingly, spending time outdoors in the heat or engaging in yard work provides a surprising relief and makes me feel better. - Over the past decade, I've consulted with over 25 medical professionals, but despite numerous tests—including blood work, CT scans, and biopsies—all results have come back normal. Where should I turn for assistance now, and what should I be on the lookout for?
Should I Get Another Men B Vaccine?
Hello everyone! I'm a 23-year-old preparing to start my first year in law school. Before I began college, I was vaccinated with the Men B vaccine, but I didn't get the second dose. Additionally, I've completed both doses of the Men ACWY vaccine. Now I'm wondering if it would be wise to receive another Men B vaccine or if I should skip it altogether. Any insights or advice would be appreciated!
Exploring Ongoing Neuro and Cardiac Issues Despite Normal Test Results
A 35-year-old female has been navigating through a perplexing health dilemma. Here’s a recap of her situation: - Recently diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) accompanied by slight regurgitation in the mitral, aortic, and tricuspid valves. - The latest two-dimensional echocardiogram indicates her heart appears structurally normal aside from the MVP condition. - Previously identified with a seizure disorder, although she has not experienced any clonic seizures to date. - Current results of her EEG display some minor irregularities, yet no signs of seizure activity. - She frequently experiences fine tremors in both hands. - Occasionally, she has strong visible tremors, particularly in her hands. - She reports predominantly dull or heavy chest discomfort, along with infrequent sharp pains located centrally and beneath the left rib. - Symptoms include episodes of numbness in her left arm associated with the chest discomfort, despite normal ECG readings. - She also suffers from right-sided headaches located at the back of her head. - Memory lapses have occurred where she intends to grab a tissue but ends up with an unrelated item (like a stuffed toy)—an amusing issue she’s faced multiple times. (Though she wonders if fatigue is the root of this forgetfulness?) - Blood pressure and cholesterol levels remain consistently elevated, although her doctors have not expressed significant concern. - There are instances of involuntary jerking in her left leg, particularly at night or during stressful situations. - Her uric acid levels are persistently high. - She experiences occasional asthma episodes, especially triggered by laughter or weather changes. - There is scarring in the upper right lung, which has not shown signs of progression. - She is currently on a medication regimen that includes lamotrigine (100 mg) and atorvastatin (40 mg). The headaches and chest discomfort have been persistent for several weeks. Despite consulting two cardiologists, a neurologist, and a pulmonologist, all specialists have concluded she is healthy and have only prescribed pain medications, which she finds frustrating. Having been told she’s too young for such problems adds to her sense of confusion. This leads her to ponder: - Might these symptoms be related to nerve issues, a potential tissue problem, or possibly linked to underlying inflammation or metabolic disturbances? - Is there anyone with MVP who has experienced similar neurological symptoms yet was overlooked for years? She is eager to seek another opinion and wonders what kind of specialist might be appropriate. Feeling exhausted and in discomfort, she seeks validation for her feelings and perhaps the assurance that she is not losing her sanity. She genuinely appreciates any guidance or support from those willing to share their insights.