Pediatric Injury Specialist

When it comes to children’s health, injuries are unfortunately a common occurrence. From head injuries to sprains and strains, children can experience a variety of ailments that need professional care. As a pediatric injury specialist, we are dedicated to treating these injuries and ensuring the well-being of your child.

At After Hours Kids in Austin, TX, our team of experienced doctors provides expert care for all types of pediatric injuries. Whether it’s a mild head injury from a fall or a severe sprain from playing sports, we are here to help. Contact us today!

Common Injuries Treated by Pediatric Injury Specialists

Children are naturally active and curious, which can lead to various injuries. Common injuries that we treat include:

Head injuries: These can range from mild bumps to severe concussions.
Sprains and strains: Often occur during sports or play.
Fractures and broken bones: Resulting from falls or accidents.
Cuts and lacerations: Needing stitches or other medical interventions.

Understanding Head Injuries in Children

Understanding the various aspects of head injuries in children is crucial for providing effective care and ensuring a swift recovery.

What Causes Head Injuries in Children?

Head injuries in children can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as falls, sports accidents, and car accidents. The most common cause is falls, especially in younger children who are still developing their balance and coordination. Sports injuries, particularly in contact sports, also contribute significantly to head injuries.

Symptoms of a Head Injury

Identifying a head injury can be challenging, but there are several symptoms to watch for:

Mild Head Injury: There may just be some pain in the head. If the head was cut, there could be some bleeding.
Severe Head Injury: Severe injuries can include a brain injury or a break in the skull bone. Severe head injuries may cause loss of consciousness, persistent vomiting, severe headaches, and slurred speech.

How to Know if it's Serious and When to See a Doctor

It is crucial to recognize when a head injury requires immediate medical attention. You should seek medical care if:

Your child loses consciousness, even briefly.
Clear fluid or blood is coming from their nose or ears.
Your child exhibits unusual behavior or is hard to wake up.
Severe headache that doesn’t go away.
Persistent vomiting or seizures.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s vital to contact your child’s healthcare provider immediately.

Treatment for Head Injuries

The first step in treating a child’s head injury involves gathering their health history and asking how the injury happened. The Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at After Hours Kids performs a neurological exam. Usually, a diagnosis is made and the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner gives your child a detailed treatment plan, along with activity restrictions, if needed.

If a concussion is diagnosed, a follow-up appointment will be recommended in 48-72 hours after injury at SportsSafe, a pediatric concussion clinic.

If symptoms are severe, occasionally, a child will be referred to Dell Children’s Medical Center for evaluation to consider imaging (CT scan of the head). A skull fracture may need surgery if it affects the brain.

Sprains and Strains in Children

Sprains and strains can happen to kids of any age; however, they are less common in younger kids.

Causes and Symptoms

Sprains and strains are common injuries in children, especially those who play sports. A sprain occurs when the ligaments are stretched or torn, while a strain involves the muscles or tendons. These injuries often happen due to:

Overstretching or tearing during physical activity.
Sudden twists or impacts during play or sports.

Symptoms of sprains and strains include:

Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Difficulty moving

How Are Sprains Treated?

Treatment for sprains and strains typically involves:

Rest: Avoiding activities that cause pain or discomfort.
Ice: Applying ice packs to reduce swelling.
Compression: Using bandages to support the injured area.
Elevation: Keeping the injury elevated to reduce swelling.

In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen the muscles around the injured area and prevent future injuries.

Depending on the severity of the injury, your child may need to wear a cast or splint while it heals. Pain medication might also be a part of the treatment plan.

You’ll be given detailed instructions regarding your child’s activity limitations while the injury heals.

If a fracture is suspected, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioners at After Hours Kids will splint the injury and schedule a follow-up the next morning for an x-ray or facilitate a referral to the emergency room.

Tips to Avoid Injuries

Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding injuries in children. Here are some tips to keep your child safe:

Use appropriate safety gear: Helmets, pads, and other protective equipment when playing sports.
Ensure proper supervision: Especially during activities like climbing or cycling.
Teach safe play practices: Encourage children to play safely and avoid risky behaviors.
Create a safe environment: Remove tripping hazards at home and ensure playgrounds are safe.

Contact Us Today

Children are prone to injuries due to their active nature, but with proper care and prevention, many of these injuries can be managed effectively. If your child experiences a head injury, sprain, or strain, our team at After Hours Kids in Austin, Texas, is here to provide expert care.

Please call us to schedule an appointment during business hours! Online scheduling is only available outside of business hours. Your child’s health and safety are our top priorities.