Orthopedics and Traumatology: Musculoskeletal Problems in Children

The Importance of Orthopedic Health in Childhood

The musculoskeletal system of children in their growth phase has a structure quite different from that of adults. Since bones are still in the developmental stage, the accurate and timely detection of orthopedic problems encountered during this period prevents permanent issues that may arise in the future. It is of great importance for families to take into consideration symptoms such as walking disorders, posture defects, and joint pains in their children.

Most Common Orthopedic Disorders in Children

The conditions most frequently encountered by orthopedics and traumatology specialists during childhood can be examined under certain categories. At the forefront of these are developmental dysplasia of the hip (hip dislocation), flat feet, in-toeing, and knock-knee or bow-leg deformities.

• Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: It can be detected early through ultrasound screenings performed in early infancy and treated with simple methods.
• Flat Feet (Pes Planus): This condition, which resolves on its own with age in most children, requires medical intervention when it causes pain or difficulty walking.
• In-toeing: It is generally caused by the posture of the ankles or hip bones and tends to correct itself with growth.

Not every in-toeing or walking disorder seen in children signifies a disease; however, if there is persistent pain or a feeling of clumsiness, a specialist must be consulted without fail.

How to Distinguish Growing Pains from Orthopedic Problems?

Growing pains that occur in the evening or at night, usually felt in the legs, are benign and disappear when they pass by morning. However, if the pain is concentrated in a single joint, leads to limping in the mornings, or is accompanied by swelling and redness, this may not be a simple growing pain and could be a harbinger of an orthopedic disorder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does flat footedness in children require surgery?

In most children, flat feet are flexible, and arches form on their own over time. Very rarely, in rigid flat foot cases that cause pain, surgical treatment is evaluated.

Is it normal for my child to walk with an in-toe gait?

Generally, in-toeing up to the ages of 3-4 is considered a normal developmental step. However, if the child is falling frequently or lagging behind peers, an orthopedic examination is essential.

Why is early diagnosis important in hip dislocation?

When developmental dysplasia of the hip is caught in the first months, it can be completely treated without the need for surgery, using only a Pavlik harness or special splints.