How to Treat a Growth Plate in the Knee

Knee growth plate injuries occur only in children and adolescents, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Growth plate injuries occur as the result of a fall, twisting or direct blow to the knee. Repetitive stress on the knee also can cause a growth plate injury. Soft cartilage around the ends of bones in children and adolescents are not fully developed, which leaves them vulnerable to fracture. Treatment is necessary for a knee growth plate injury to avoid long-term complications.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit your child's doctor as soon as possible. See an orthopaedic specialist within a week of the injury. A doctor will perform a physical examination to look for signs of swelling, warmth and deformity.

• 2

  Schedule testing as directed by your child's doctor. An X-ray, CT scan or MRI may be ordered to get a better view of the knee and its surrounding tissues.

• 3

  Follow your doctor's instructions. Depending upon the severity of the fracture, your child's doctor may recommend immobilization --- using a cast. For severe growth plate injuries, surgery may be required in order to align the bone.

• 4

  Attend physical therapy. Following cast removal or after surgery, your child's doctor may recommend physical therapy. Physical therapy will help to strengthen and improve flexibility in the child's knee.