Buckle fracture management of the distal radius is typically treated with?

• A. Immediate surgical fixation
• B. Casting
• C. No immobilization
• D. Long-term immobilization

Answer: (B)

A buckle (torus) fracture of the distal radius in a child is a stable, non-displaced injury, so nonoperative management with immobilization in a cast is usually all that’s required to allow healing. The intact periosteum and minimal displacement mean the fracture will remodel and recover well with protection and restriction of movement for a short period, rather than needing surgery. Immediate surgical fixation is not indicated because there’s no instability or displacement requiring hardware. Not immobilizing would leave the fracture unprotected and painful, hindering healing, and long-term immobilization isn’t necessary and can lead to stiffness or stiffness-related problems during recovery.