Understanding Pediatric Orthopaedics: What Every Parent Should Know

As a parent, your child's health is your top priority. When your child experiences growing pains, it can be hard to know if it's a normal part of development or something more serious. This blog post will provide a basic understanding of paediatric orthopaedics, common childhood bone and joint issues, and tips to help prevent them.

What is Pediatric Orthopaedics?

Pediatric orthopaedics is a branch of medicine that focuses on the musculoskeletal system in children, including bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Pediatric orthopaedists are specially trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions that affect growing bones and bodies.

Common Childhood Bone and Joint Issues

Here are some of the most common bone and joint issues seen in children:

·       Growing pains: These are pains in the legs or thighs that are common in children between the ages of 4 and 8. They are usually harmless and go away on their own.

·       Bowlegs and knock-knees: These are conditions where the legs curve inward or outward. They are usually temporary and resolve on their own as the child grows. However, if they are severe or persist beyond a certain age, a paediatric orthopaedist can recommend treatment.

·       Flat feet: Many children have flat feet, which means the arch of the foot is not fully developed. Flat feet are usually painless and don't require treatment. However, if your child experiences pain or difficulty walking, a paediatric orthopaedist can assess the situation.

·       Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE): This is a serious condition that affects the hip joint. It can cause pain and limp. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications.

·       Osgood-Schlatter disease: This is a condition that causes pain and swelling below the kneecap. It is common in active teenagers.

·       Sever's disease: This is a condition that causes pain in the heel. It is also common in active teenagers.

Tips to Help Prevent Childhood Bone and Joint Issues

·       Promote healthy growth and development: Ensure your child eats a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health.

·       Encourage regular exercise: Physical activity helps strengthen bones and muscles and promotes overall health.

·       Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can put extra stress on growing bones and joints.

·       Use proper footwear: Supportive shoes are important for children's growing feet.

·       Schedule regular check-ups with your paediatrician: Regular check-ups allow for early detection of any potential problems.

When to See a Pediatric Orthopaedist

If your child experiences any of the following, it is important to schedule an appointment with a paediatric orthopaedist:

·       Persistent pain in the bones or joints

·       Limping

·       Difficulty walking or running

·       Deformities in the bones or joints

·       Limited range of motion in a joint

·       Severe swelling or bruising

Conclusion

By understanding paediatric orthopaedics and common childhood bone and joint issues, you can help your child stay healthy and active. If you have any concerns about your child's bone or joint health, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr Devashree Chhaparwal, a leading paediatric orthopaedist in Udaipur. Her experience and expertise can help ensure your child's healthy development.