Pediatric Orthopedics

Pediatric orthopedics is the branch of Orthopedics and Traumatology that diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal diseases that occur throughout childhood from birth to young adulthood.
Orthopedic diseases in childhood may occur due to congenital, traumatic, neurological or other causes. The treatment areas of pediatric orthopedics are evaluated in three groups as pediatric upper limb, pediatric lower limb and spine.
Childhood encompasses an ongoing developmental process. Therefore children’s musculoskeletal problems are different from the problems encountered in adults.
Pediatric orthopedics, also called childhood orthopedics, is an extremely important and fundamental branch of medicine. Because many orthopedic problems experienced in adulthood are actually caused by diseases that were neglected and untreated in childhood. In this sense, correct diagnosis and treatment of children with orthopedic disorders at an early age also positively affects the general health conditions in later ages.

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON PEDIATRIC ORTHOPEDIC DISEASES?

The main purpose of pediatric orthopedics is to endure, with early diagnosis and treatment, that the patient does not experience any musculoskeletal problems in later ages. Diseases that are commonly encountered and treatable in the field of pediatric orthopedics in our society are listed as follows:
Scoliosis: The incidence of scoliosis, also known as spinal curvature, is increasing in childhood. Scoliosis, which can cause respiratory problems in young children, can progress rapidly with adolescence. Scoliosis can be treated if detected at an early age.
Flat Foot: Every child is born with a flat foot, and in the development process (after 3 years of age), curves in the feet occur over time. In this sense, it is important for parents to be careful in this regard. If the flat foot problem persists in children despite advanced age, then it requires treatment.
Hip dysplasia: Developmental dysplasia of the hip, also known as congenital hip dysplasia, is common in our country. Babies with a family history of hip dislocation are in the direct risk group and should be followed up regularly by a doctor. In addition, causes such as first birth, bleeding in the neck muscle, foot disorders, wrong swaddling can also lead to this disease. Hip dysplasia in infants can be treated without the need for surgical intervention, thanks to regular follow-up.
Clubfoot: Clubfoot is an orthopedic disorder in which the feet are positioned inward. Early diagnosis is an extremely important factor in the treatment of this disease. Because if it is not treated on time, there is a risk that the child will not be able to walk. The first of the treatment options is to correct the form of the foot structure with a plaster cast. When this treatment is not sufficient, tendon surgery can be considered.
In-toeing: The problem of in-toeing is common in children. This problem, which may originate from the hip and knee, usually resolves spontaneously during the developmental period. In cases where improvement does not occur, the option of surgery comes to the fore.
Fractures: Fractures may occur due to physical activity or trauma in childhood. Fractures can be treated with methods such as plaster, splint or surgical intervention. Sometimes, physical therapy support may be required.