Pediatric orthopedics is a subspecialty of orthopedics that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal problems in infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric orthopedists use non-surgical and surgical treatments to treat a variety of orthopedic issues in children, such as congenital issues in the musculoskeletal system, fractures, scoliosis, and much more.
Here are 7 interesting facts you should know about pediatric orthopedics:
1. Orthopedic problems are common in children.
Pediatric orthopedic issues are either congenital, developmental, or acquired. Congenital issues is a common reason why young patients see pediatric orthopedic doctors. Examples of congenital issues are clubfoot and scoliosis. Examples of developmental pediatric orthopedic issues are hip dysplasia and metatarsus adductus. Fractures, shin splints, and dislocations are all examples of acquired pediatric orthopedic conditions. All of these can be expertly treated by a pediatric orthopedic surgeon.
2. Children can have one leg shorter than the other.
Limb deformity correction is a common procedure in pediatric orthopedics. The most common type of limb deformity is called congenital femoral deficiency (CFD). This condition occurs when the thigh bone (femur) does not develop properly, causing the leg to be shorter than the other. In order to correct this, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon places an artificial bone (prosthesis) inside the femur. This helps to lengthen the leg and bring it back into alignment with the other limbs.
3. Spina bifida can lead to paralysis.
Spina bifida, a birth defect in which the spinal cord does not form properly, is something that may require the expertise of a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. If left untreated, it can lead to paralysis below the level of injury. Spina bifida is one of the pediatric orthopedic conditions that can be treated before birth – before the 26th week of pregnancy – and involves the surgeon making repairs to the baby’s spinal cord.
4. Growth plate injuries can have lifelong issues when not treated properly.
Children have growth plates at the ends of larger bones. These disappear with time as their bones grow to their full length and size. When a child suffers a fracture near or at a growth plate, it must be treated immediately by an expert pediatric orthopedist. If not treated properly, an issue with a growth plate can affect how the bone grows in the future, potentially leading to a host of orthopedic problems in adulthood.
5. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons work closely with other medical specialists.
Pediatric orthopedic surgeons work with a variety of medical experts, such as nurses, primary care doctors, radiologists, and physical therapists to diagnose and treat patients effectively. Not all prescribed treatments are directly administered by the pediatric orthopedist. An excellent example of this is physical therapy, which is overseen, customized, and guided by a physical therapist based on the pediatric orthopedist’s diagnosis. As such, you should be prepared to work with multiple professionals when seeking treatment for a pediatric orthopedic issue.
6. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons use many non-surgical techniques.
Pediatric orthopedic surgeons don’t just perform surgery. In fact, they try to employ a lot of non-surgical orthopedic treatments before recommending surgery to most patients. This includes medication, physical therapy, braces and casts, and much more.
7. They are committed to your child’s healthy growth and development.
A pediatric orthopedic surgeon’s goal is to help patients achieve a high level of function and pain relief, so they can lead active, productive lives. The doctor will consider psychological factors and the child’s emotional well-being when prescribing treatments.
Pediatric orthopedic surgery is different from adult orthopedic surgery in many ways. It is important to choose an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in pediatric orthopedics to give your child the best treatment.
Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons at Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes, FL
For comprehensive pediatric orthopedic care, choose Total Orthopaedic Care. Our board-certified pediatric orthopedic surgeons are highly respected in their field for giving state-of-the-art pediatric orthopedic care. Theyare widely known to use a caring and compassionate approach and are excellent communicators, especially with young patients.
As a parent, it is not easy to see your child suffer from an orthopedic issue, but put your trust in our expert hands, and we will strive to give them the best outcome. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, call our office today at (954) 735-3535 or use our convenient online request form.
