FRACTURES   Signs / Symptoms     Following trauma look for: • Deformity • Inability to move limb below injury site • Popping/snapping sound or sensation • Loss of sensation below injury site • Localized swelling       Walking and/or moving are not definitive tests!!!! Many athletes fracture the outer lower leg bone (fibula) and are still able to walk.     Treatment     • Ice • Stabilize the joints above and below the site of the injury; make athlete as comfortable as possible. • Compression can help decrease swelling; do not attempt compression if this increases pain or compromises the injury. • Elevation of limb if possible. • Do not attempt stabilization, compression, or elevation if pain increases with movement. • See physician or proceed to emergency room.       Young athletes can sustain fractures and due to the nature of their growing bones, if these fractures are slight, they may not be visible by x-ray. If the sign/symptoms persist, return in 10-14 days for another x-ray.     PREVENTION   • Make certain that ankle braces fit properly and are worn properly during both practice and games, for high-risk sports. • Make certain to wear recommended protective pads/equipment. • Make certain to wear proper footwear for your particular sport. • Always be aware of playing surfaces and their inconsistencies.   COMMONLY ASSOCIATED WITH:   Football, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, skateboarding, rollerblading, bicycling, gymnastics, soccer   ADDITIONAL RESOURCES   Children's Orthopedics of Hawaii Wheeless Textbook of Orthopedics       It is extremely important to be able to recognize serious and/or life threatening injuries. These injuries are not always obvious therefore, we recommend that someone (i.e. a coach or team parent) become certified in Basic First Aide Procedures. The American Red Cross offers frequent courses in the procedures.