OVERVIEW
Pediatric orthopaedic diseases encompass a range of musculoskeletal disorders affecting children, including conditions involving bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues. These diseases can arise from congenital anomalies, developmental issues, trauma, or infections, impacting a child’s mobility, growth, and overall quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to ensure optimal development and functionality.
What are Pediatric Orthopaedic Diseases?
Pediatric orthopaedic diseases refer to a wide range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system in children, including bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues. These diseases can be congenital (present at birth), developmental, or acquired due to trauma or other factors. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure healthy growth and development, as musculoskeletal issues can significantly impact a child’s mobility, physical abilities, and quality of life.

Types of Pediatric Orthopaedic Diseases
- Clubfoot (CTEV): A congenital deformity where the foot is twisted inward and downward.
- Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH): A condition where the hip joint is improperly formed, leading to instability or dislocation.
- Scoliosis: A curvature of the spine that can range from mild to severe, potentially affecting posture and organ function.
- Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Inflammation of the growth plate at the knee, commonly seen in active adolescents.
- Fractures: Broken bones that can occur due to trauma, falls, or sports injuries.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: A hip disorder in which the blood supply to the femoral head is temporarily disrupted, leading to bone death.
- Flat Feet (Pes Planus): A condition where the arches of the foot collapse, resulting in flat soles.
Symptoms of Pediatric Orthopaedic Diseases
Causes of Pediatric Orthopaedic Diseases
Diagnosis of Pediatric Orthopaedic Diseases
Diagnosing pediatric orthopaedic diseases involves several key steps:
- Medical History: The healthcare provider gathers information about the child’s symptoms, family history, and previous injuries.
- Physical Examination: A thorough exam assesses posture, gait, range of motion, and any visible deformities, as well as tenderness and muscle strength.
- Imaging Studies:
- X-rays: Used to identify fractures, misalignments, and developmental abnormalities.
- MRI: Provides detailed images of soft tissues, helpful for diagnosing infections or tumors.
- CT Scans: Offers detailed views of complex fractures or bone development issues.
- Functional Assessments: Physical therapists may evaluate the child’s balance, coordination, and strength to understand the condition’s impact on daily activities.
- Specialized Tests: Additional tests, such as blood tests or genetic testing, may be performed to rule out other conditions or confirm diagnoses.