Why must growth plates be considered in pediatric PT assessment and treatment planning?

• A. Because children are more tolerant of aggressive loading
• B. Because growth plates have no relevance to PT interventions
• C. Because growth plates are susceptible to injury and healing potential differs from adults
• D. Because imaging is not necessary in children

Answer: (C)

Growth plates are the areas of developing cartilage at the ends of long bones where growth occurs. In children these physes are open and structurally weaker than mature bone, making them particularly vulnerable to injury from forces that might not harm an adult bone. Injuries to the growth plate can disrupt normal bone growth and lead to deformities or limb-length discrepancies if not managed carefully. Because of this, pediatric PT assessment and treatment must protect the growth plates while still promoting healing, function, and normal development. Treatments are adjusted to the child’s stage of growth, with careful progression of loading, range of motion, and activity to minimize physeal risk. Healing in children can be faster and remodeling potential is greater, but a physeal injury may still alter growth trajectories if not appropriately addressed. Imaging is often used to assess physeal status and monitor healing, ensuring that rehab decisions support both current function and future growth.