Pediatric orthopaedics focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions in children, from infancy through adolescence. Children’s bones and joints are still growing; their orthopaedic needs differ from those of adults and often require specialized care. Pediatric orthopaedics addresses a wide range of conditions, including fractures and congenital abnormalities. Here’s more information on common conditions treated in pediatric orthopaedics:
Congenital and Developmental Conditions
Children can be born with or develop structural problems as they grow. These conditions affect how bones and joints form or function properly. Here is a list of common congenital and developmental conditions addressed in pediatric orthopaedics:
- Hip Dysplasia: Occurs when the hip socket does not fully cover the ball portion of the upper thighbone. This condition can cause the hip joint to become partially or completely dislocated.
- Scoliosis: Characterized by an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, scoliosis often develops during growth spurts before puberty. Mild cases may only require monitoring, while severe curves may necessitate bracing or surgery.
- Limb Length Differences: Occurs when one arm or leg grows longer than the other. While small differences may not require intervention, larger discrepancies can affect walking and posture.
- Clubfoot: A deformity present at birth, clubfoot causes one or both feet to turn inward and downward, which makes normal walking difficult. Early treatment can correct the foot’s position and restore normal function.
Recognizing and treating these conditions early can significantly improve a child’s mobility, function, and well-being as they grow.
Growth-related and Overuse Issues
Active children and teenagers often encounter issues related to their developing bodies and increased physical activity. These conditions usually develop gradually and affect areas where growth occurs. Growth plate injuries happen in the areas of growing tissue near the ends of long bones. These soft areas are vulnerable to injury than mature bone. Proper treatment makes sure normal growth continues without complications.
Osgood-Schlatter disease causes pain and swelling at the point where the tendon attaches to the kneecap. This condition often affects active children between the ages of 10 and 14 during growth spurts. Rest, ice, and modified activity usually resolve the symptoms.
Little League elbow develops from repetitive throwing motions that stress the elbow joint. Treatment involves rest from throwing activities and physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility. Apophysitis refers to inflammation of the growth plates where tendons attach to bones. Common locations include the heel, knee, and hip.
Traumatic Injuries and Fractures
Children’s bones are more flexible than adult bones, but they can still break from falls, sports, or accidents. Pediatric fractures often heal faster than adult fractures due to the active growth processes. Greenstick fractures occur when a bone bends and cracks but doesn’t break completely. These incomplete breaks are common in children because their bones are more flexible and susceptible to injury.
Growth plate fractures occur in the areas where bones grow and can potentially disrupt normal bone development. These injuries require careful evaluation and monitoring to prevent growth problems. Supracondylar fractures happen just above the elbow joint and are common injuries in children. These fractures often result from falls on outstretched hands.
Schedule Your Pediatric Orthopaedics Visit
Pediatric musculoskeletal care addresses a wide range of conditions that can affect children’s growth, development, and well-being. From congenital abnormalities to sports injuries, early recognition and appropriate treatment help young patients achieve their full potential. If your child experiences persistent pain, difficulty walking, or changes in their usual activities, schedule an appointment with a pediatric orthopaedics specialist near you today to get your child the specialized care they need.
