Pediatric foot and ankle injuries include sprains as well as closed or open fractures. Pediatric injuries should be taken with special care due to delicate areas of bone known as growth plates. Growth plates are areas of the bone that are soft or cartilaginous. The presence of growth plates allows the bones to grow. If these areas are disrupted by an injury, bone development may be arrested or disrupted. If your child has sustained an open fracture, immediate attention is required.