Broken arm

Broken arms in children

Read the information in the following pages to learn more about diagnosis and treatment that Boston Children's Hospital provides for every type and severity of broken arm in children. 

What are broken arms?

A broken arm occurs when there is a crack or break in one (or more) of the three bones in the arm: the humerus, radius or ulna. Broken arms are often caused by an impact injury, such as from a fall (as when a child uses his outstretched arm to break a fall), or a direct blow.

A simple break in the arm is usually treated with a splint or cast, while more complex breaks may require surgery. With proper treatment, broken arms can heal completely. Full use of the arm is often regained within a couple weeks after the final cast is removed.

Broken arm: Reviewed by Travis H. Matheney, MD, MLA
© Boston Children’s Hospital, 2012