In what patient age group are supracondylar fractures more common?

Supracondylar fractures, which typically occur in the distal humerus just above the elbow joint, are most commonly seen in children, particularly those aged 5 to 7 years. This age group is particularly vulnerable to such fractures due to their active lifestyle and the developmental characteristics of their bones. As children's bones are still developing and are more pliable, they are at a higher risk for these types of injuries, especially in cases of falls or direct impacts.

In contrast, infants are less likely to experience these fractures due to their limited mobility. Adolescents may encounter different types of injuries as they are often engaged in higher-risk sports or activities, but their growth plates have also matured to some extent. Older adults, while they may suffer from fractures due to falls, are more susceptible to other types of fractures, such as hip or wrist fractures, rather than supracondylar fractures, which are specific to the pediatric population.