Babies are, by nature, more fragile than adults and thus more prone to injuries like fractures and sprains. While parents do their best to keep children safe at all times, accidents can still happen. As a leading team of pediatric care professionals in Baldwin County, AL, the staff from Orange Beach Walk-In Medical Care is here to shed some light on these potentially serious injuries.

In some cases, fractures can take place when a child is being delivered. According to The Safe Birth Project, roughly one in 1,000 births results in an infant bone fracture, 45% of which occur in the clavicle. Bruising and swelling in the affected area typically alert pediatric care professionals of the condition. Additionally, although rare, fractures can occur in babies as a result of getting their limbs caught in cribs.

A fracture takes place when the bone is broken, and it can either involve no open skin (called a closed fracture) or some bleeding from open skin (a compound fracture). Common signs of a fracture in an infant include swelling, redness, constant crying, and an inability to move the affected area. Seeking immediate medical attention is warranted if you suspect a fracture, so bring your baby to an emergency care clinic as soon as possible. The doctor will assess the condition and provide a targeted treatment plan to help your little one heal.

On the other hand, strains and sprains can also occur in infants. While less severe, the pain from these injuries can still be quite intense. If you suspect your child has suffered a strain or sprain, you can use the RICE method (rest, ice, compress, and elevate) to treat the injured area until you’re able to see a doctor.

Because babies are unable to communicate the level of pain and precise symptoms they’re experiencing, any type of injury in an infant should be checked out by a pediatric care professional. The team at Orange Beach Walk-In Medical Care is available for emergencies without appointments, and their dedicated team is committed to treating families in the Orange Beach area with the best medical services possible. To learn more about the clinic, call (251) 964-7425, or visit their website for additional information about their services.