As parents, we always want our kids to be healthy and happy, right? However, orthopedic conditions in children may have a huge impact on their growth, development as well as overall quality of life. That’s why it’s important for parents to have a basic understanding of various types of pediatric orthopedic conditions so that they can take early steps to consult a doctor and help their kids recover.
In this blog, we will understand some of the most common orthopedic conditions in children.
Common Types of Orthopedic Conditions in Children
Concussion
Sometimes kids bump their heads and it can cause the condition – concussion. In this case, the brain gets a little shaken up and it may make a child feel like dizzy or confused for a bit…but, wait! Although this is not too serious… but, you know it’s good to consult a doctor specializing in pediatric orthopedics in Dubai.
Whiplash
When a child’s head suddenly jerks forward and back, the condition is known as Whiplash. It can make the neck sore and stiff. In that case, doctors may suggest medicine for pain, some exercises or using heat or ice to help it feel better.
Neck fracture
If a child has a bad fall or is in a vehicle accident, it might hurt their neck…. Yes, this can be scary, but doctors know how to help your little one. They’ll take a close look and figure out the best way to help the child’s neck heal.
Back Pain
Kids can sometimes get back pain, just like parents and other growth ups do. It can happen anywhere from their neck to their lower back of the body part.
Scoliosis
Sometimes, a child’s spine may develop a curve that is not quite right. And, this is called scoliosis and it often happens when kids are growing really fast.
Spina Bifida
Some babies are born with a condition known as spina bifida. You know this happens when the bones in their spine don’t grow around their spinal cord properly before they’re given birth.
Spondylolysis
Active kids, especially young athletes, may get a small crack in one of their spine bones. This is called spondylolysis. If you take your child quickly to the doctor, they will catch it early. They many suggest some exercises and a special brace to help it heal.
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH):
Hip problems can start even before a baby is born. One such issue is called developmental dysplasia of the hip. Here, the hip joint doesn’t form quite right.
ACL Injury
Knee injuries are common in kids who play sports. One that happens a lot is an ACL injury. This a condition when a certain ligament in the knee gets hurt. Doctors work to fix it so kids can get back to playing sports safely.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Another knee problem some kids get is called Osgood-Schlatter disease. It makes the area just below the knee swell up and hurt.
Bone Cancer (Sarcoma)
Sometimes, kids can get more serious conditions like bone cancer. Two types of bone sarcoma conditions are – osteosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma.
Fractures
And, when kids break bones, it’s different from adults. Their bones are softer, so they might bend instead of breaking all the way through. Some common types of breaks of bones in kids are called buckle, greenstick and torus fractures.
Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors
There are also other kinds of tumors that can grow in bones or soft tissues, like Ewing sarcoma, osteosarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma.
Bottom Line
As a parent when you know these issues, you can take early steps and consult a specialist. It facilitates early identification of the condition.
We have a great team of doctors who specialize in pediatric orthopedics in Dubai to help kids with bone and joint problems.
When you bring your child to us, our doctors will carefully check the condition of the kid. They’ll take the necessary time and even advice to do some tests to understand the problem and then come up with the best treatment option.
If you notice your child is having trouble with their bones, muscles or joints, or if they’ve hurt themselves, don’t wait! Come to our clinic(which is open for 7 days a week).
Book a consultation to talk to our specialists.