Why You Should Visit a Pediatric Orthopedic Clinic for Your Child’s Bone Injury
Children are not small adults; their physiology differs greatly, which means they may be diagnosed and treated differently for various disorders and injuries. Most children are referred to our practice by their pediatrician or an ER doctor. But as a parent, how do you know when to visit a pediatric orthopedic clinic for your child’s bone injury?
What is a Pediatric Orthopedist?
A pediatric orthopedist is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing musculoskeletal problems in children, from birth through the teenage years. This subspecialty of orthopedics involves additional pediatric fellowship training focused on treating children. While all of our doctors at The Pediatric Orthopedic Center (TPOC) are trained as surgeons, surgery is not always the necessary treatment path. Non-invasive treatments like casting or bracing are often effective in managing pediatric orthopedic conditions.
Why Should You Visit a Pediatric Orthopedic Clinic?
Pediatric orthopedists treat conditions that range from congenital deformities such as clubfoot to trauma-related injuries like fractures or ligament tears. Unlike adults, children’s bones are still growing, with open growth plates that require specialized care. At TPOC, our doctors take a child-specific approach that minimizes damage to growth plates and optimizes healing. For instance, younger patients can remodel fractures due to their ability to heal and grow new bone, allowing us to be more conservative in treatment. Additionally, children tend to heal faster than adults, allowing for quicker returns to activities.
Common Conditions Treated by Pediatric Orthopedists
Pediatric orthopedic care is essential for various conditions, including:
- Sports Injuries: Children are more prone to fractures and ligament injuries due to sports. If your child has a swollen joint or is favoring a limb for more than two days, it’s advisable to seek an orthopedic evaluation.
- Congenital Issues: Conditions like scoliosis, hip dysplasia, and clubfoot often require the attention of a pediatric orthopedist. These can be diagnosed at birth or develop later in life.
- Overuse Injuries: With more children participating in year-round sports, overuse injuries like Osgood-Schlatter disease and Little League elbow are common. Early intervention can prevent these from becoming more severe.
When to See a Pediatric Orthopedist
While it’s natural to wonder if a bone injury requires specialist care, there are specific signs that indicate it’s time to see a pediatric orthopedist:
- Your child continues to favor a limb or joint for more than a few days.
- A limp or unexplained pain persists, particularly in children under eight.
- There is visible swelling or difficulty in moving a body part.
- Your child complains of ongoing joint or muscle pain during and after sports activities.
Why Pediatric Orthopedic Care is Different
Children’s bodies are not just smaller versions of adults’ bodies—they are still developing. Growth plates, the areas of new bone development, remain open until the end of puberty. This ongoing growth means that injuries like fractures or sprains require specialized attention to ensure proper healing without damaging these vital growth areas. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons are experts in managing this process, using techniques that allow bones to heal correctly while reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Pediatric Urgent Care for Orthopedic Issues
Fortunately, it’s easier than ever to visit a pediatric orthopedist without going through the ER. At The Pediatric Orthopedic Center, we offer walk-in hours Monday through Thursday from 5 – 8 PM, and Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM at our Cedar Knolls office, where no appointment is required. This urgent care approach allows parents to avoid crowded emergency rooms and get specialized care right away.
What to Expect at Your Pediatric Orthopedic Visit
When visiting a pediatric orthopedic clinic, you should expect a thorough evaluation of your child’s orthopedic issue. At TPOC, we begin with a detailed history and physical exam, followed by imaging such as X-rays or EOSedge scans if needed. Our low-dose EOSedge system is our latest technical advancement, delivering high-quality 3D images with only 4% of the radiation of traditional X-rays. After diagnosis, your orthopedist will discuss treatment options, which may range from casting to surgery, depending on the injury.
Choosing a Pediatric Orthopedist for Your Child
When it comes to your child’s bone injury, early diagnosis and specialized treatment are crucial. Visiting a pediatric orthopedic clinic ensures that your child’s unique physiology is properly cared for, minimizing long-term risks. At TPOC, we are committed to providing expert care for your child’s orthopedic needs, with board-certified surgeons and the latest in medical technology.
If your child is suffering from an injury or musculoskeletal issue, contact The Pediatric Orthopedic Center today to schedule an appointment or take advantage of our walk-in hours at our Cedar Knolls office.
