Pediatric orthopedics is a field that deals with musculoskeletal problems in children, and specialists examine children from infancy to 18 years of age.
Pediatric orthopedics
When is a pediatric orthopedic examination recommended?
Orthopedic examination of children is recommended for newborns, and in childhood and adolescence too. Musculoskeletal disorders detected in infant and childhood orthopedic screening tests are particularly curable.
After the birth of a child, the first test is hip screening between the ages of four and six weeks. The screening examination consists of a physical examination and an ultrasound examination. In addition to the examination of the hip, an examination of the joints, skull and spine is also performed by the specialist. Orthopedic screening of infants can screen for infantile hip diseases and developmental disorders.
The second screening test is recommended when independent walking develops, in which case the purpose of the test is to examine the position of the ankles. Congenital foot deformities should be treated as early as possible with physiotherapy, and plaster casts where necessary.
The next examination is recommended for children at the age of three years. In these examinations we examine the sinking of the transverse and longitudinal arches, and if necessary, we recommend the use of physiotherapy and orthopedic insoles.
Pediatric orthopedic examinations are recommended before the start of school and at seven, ten, and fourteen years of age. The musculoskeletal development of children can be affected by lack of exercise, heavy school bags, prolonged sitting, prolonged use of mobile devices, and, in the case of active sports performers, inappropriate physical activity for the child’s age.
The examination of the spine plays an important role in school-age examinations. Your orthopedic doctor may recommend an annual check-up to follow up a diagnosed scoliosis.
With what kind of symptoms should you consult a pediatric orthopedic specialist?
In addition to screenings, the pediatric orthopedic doctor deals with the problems of the musculoskeletal system of this age group:
- abnormal motor development in babies
- spinal pain
- abnormal curvature of the spine
- poor posture
- muscle stiffness
- narrowed range of motion of hands, feet and spine
- Humped back, protruding abdomen
- abnormal foot position
- abnormal posture, asymmetry
- foot/sole pain
What happens during a pediatric orthopedic examination?
After the physical examination, the orthopedic specialist may also order special diagnostic tests (MRI, CT, x-ray, ultrasound, lab tests) to establish an accurate diagnosis.
How should you arrive for the examination?
For a pediatric orthopedic examination, bring recordings of your child’s previous orthopedic findings, and their radiological examinations results.
