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Burns and scalds
Overview
Burns and scalds is a childhood bone, joint, muscle or injury concern. Mechanism, pain, swelling and function guide urgency.
This guide provides general education and cannot diagnose an individual or replace professional assessment.
Signs and symptoms
Pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, deformity, reduced movement or unwillingness to use a limb may occur.
Age, development, duration, severity and impact on daily life help determine what the symptom means.
Causes
Falls, sports, twisting, pulling, overuse, growth-related strain or heat exposure cause many injuries; some conditions develop without one clear event.
Risk factors
Age, activity, bone health, training changes, unsafe environments and previous injury may influence risk. Risk factors do not confirm a diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Assessment includes the injury history, circulation, sensation and movement. X-rays or other imaging are used when indicated.
Treatment options
Care may involve cooling, protection, a splint or cast, rehabilitation, pain relief or specialist reduction or surgery.
Home care
Cool a recent burn under cool running water for 20 minutes, remove nearby clothing or jewellery that is not stuck, and cover loosely with clean non-fluffy material. Do not use ice or creams.
Prevention
Supervision, safe equipment, protective gear, strength, rest and age-appropriate activity reduce preventable injuries.
Possible complications
Growth-plate damage, stiffness, infection, poor healing or persistent pain can occur and require follow-up.
When to seek urgent medical care
Urgent assessment is needed for large, deep, electrical or chemical burns, burns to the face, hands, joints or genitals, smoke exposure, or any significant burn in a baby.
Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey colour, collapse, reduced responsiveness, uncontrolled bleeding or rapidly worsening serious illness.
Frequently asked questions
Should we wait and see?
Brief mild symptoms can sometimes be observed, but new, severe, persistent or worsening symptoms deserve professional advice.
What should I record?
Note timing, triggers, duration, associated symptoms, medicines, sleep and the effect on eating, drinking, movement, learning or family life.
Who should assess this?
Start with the child’s primary-care clinician, dentist, optometrist, hearing professional, maternity professional or mental-health clinician as appropriate. Emergency warning signs need urgent services.
Summary
Immediate cooling and appropriate medical assessment limit burn damage.
References
OUR REVIEW PROMISE
Evidence-based, clearly reviewed.
Healthier Baby Today articles are reviewed for accuracy and updated as guidance changes.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
