Pediatric Orthopedics

Pediatric Orthopedics

Children with orthopedic conditions require special care that takes into consideration their bones, joints and muscles for effective treatment that does not affect the growth and development process. Our doctors are specially trained in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of pediatric orthopedic conditions, and work together with parents and children to ensure a happy and healthy development for all patients.

There are a variety of orthopedic conditions that specifically impact children and teens, including congenital abnormalities, childhood disease, broken bones, playground accidents, sports injuries and aches and pains associated with the growth spurts of puberty.

Depending on the type of injury or disease, children with these conditions may experience abnormal muscle tone, impaired balance, weakness, poor coordination and a decrease in functional movement, in addition to pain, swelling and bruising.

Highlighted Conditions

Congenital Deformities

While children are at risk for many of the same injuries and conditions as adults, they are also susceptible to certain congenital conditions that may affect their ability to walk or perform other everyday tasks by themselves. While many children grow out of these conditions naturally over a certain amount of time, some may require ongoing treatment to maintain or restore function in the affected area.

Some of the most common childhood conditions include:

• In-toeing (pigeon toes)
• Bowlegs
• Club foot
• Flat foot

Our doctors will provide specialized care to correct these deformities and allow your child to experience a happy and healthy life.

Injuries

Because of the fragile nature of growing bones and joints, children are often at an increased risk of experiencing injuries such as a fracture, sprain or dislocation. Children are also usually more active than adults and likely to experience injuries or accidents during physical activity.

Fortunately, many of these injuries tend to heal easier in children because their bones are strong and flexible, allowing your child to quickly return to normal growth and activity with little to no long-term damage. Conservative treatment such as casting, rest and immobilization are often effective in treating these injuries.

Neurological Conditions

Children with certain neurological conditions often experience muscle deformities or imbalances that require long-term care so that patients can experience a certain quality of life and degree of independence regardless of their condition. We provide treatment programs for cerebral palsy, spina bifida and muscular dystrophy, among others, to help patients gain function in affected areas.

Treatment for some of these conditions may require surgery to correct structural abnormalities, as well as ongoing physical therapy programs customized for each individual patient.