Paediatric Orthopaedics

It is a branch of orthopaedics that addresses orthopaedic problems in children and infants. Diagnosis and treatment of such problems in children require a specialised approach and vast experience. These include conditions like congenital malformations, deformities, injuries, growth abnormalities and limb length inequality. 

What is paediatric orthopaedics?
Paediatric orthopaedics is just like adult orthopaedics, the only difference being that instead of adults the speciality focuses on musculoskeletal problems in small children and infants, which makes it a little more challenging as their bones are still growing. Paediatric orthopaedics focuses on congenital malformations, as well as conditions acquired after birth. Paediatric orthopaedics involves a wide gamut of surgical and non-surgical modalities, all focusing on the diagnosis, assessment, treatment and management of orthopaedic diseases and disorders in children and teens. 

What are the common conditions addressed in paediatric orthopaedics? 
Paediatric orthopaedics addresses a wide range of diseases, deformities, disorders and malignancies that affect the bones, joints and soft tissues in children. These include;
●    Structural and functional defects of the spine
●    Deformities of the upper and lower limbs 
●    Musculoskeletal deformities that result from an underlying metabolic disease
●    Structural and functional defects of the feet
●    Hip dysplasia
●    Bow legs
●    Flat feet
●    Delayed walking
●    Juvenile arthritis 
●    Bone tumours 
●    Traumatic injuries 
●    Fractures

When is the right time to see a doctor?
Children with orthopaedic conditions usually have visible symptoms and it is important to consult a doctor as soon as you start noticing these. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help in the effective management of such conditions and give your little one a better chance at life.