Tibia & Fibula Shaft Fracture (Lower Leg)

Description

This is a break of both bones of the lower leg — the tibia (shinbone) and the fibula — in their shafts. It usually takes a significant force, such as a fall, a sports collision, or a twisting injury.

How it happens (the mechanism)

A strong bending or twisting force breaks both lower-leg bones. The lower leg is also the spot orthopaedists watch most carefully for compartment syndrome — a build-up of pressure within the leg’s muscle compartments after injury — because the early warning sign, severe pain that is out of proportion (especially when the toes are gently moved), is one families can help catch.

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, and often a visible bend of the lower leg, with the child unable to bear weight.

Doctor examination and imaging

The doctor checks alignment and the leg’s circulation and feeling, and watches for excessive swelling; X-rays of the lower leg show both fractures.

Nonsurgical treatment

Most are realigned (if needed) and held in a long-leg cast, often for six to twelve weeks depending on age, with X-rays along the way to confirm alignment.

Surgical treatment

Unstable fractures, open fractures, or those in older teens may be treated with flexible rods, a plate, or an external frame.

Recovery and long-term outlook

These heal well in children, with a gradual return to weight-bearing and activity guided by healing on X-ray.

When to call the doctor

Call right away or seek emergency care if pain becomes severe or out of proportion — especially pain when the toes are gently moved or stretched — or the toes become numb, pale, blue, or cold, or the cast feels dangerously tight. These can signal dangerous pressure building within the leg (compartment syndrome). Also call for fever, worsening swelling, or drainage.

Learn more

OrthoInfo (AAOS) — Growth Plate Fractures: orthoinfo.aaos.org

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For specific concerns about your child, consult a board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric orthopaedic surgeon.