When to See a Pediatric Orthopaedist

Kids can be clumsy during play dates, sports outings or even hanging around at home. But when should a bump, bruise, twist or tumble be seen by a pediatric orthopaedic specialist?

What Pediatric Orthopaedists Do

Pediatric orthopaedists deal with concerns and injuries in children’s bones, joints, limbs and the spine. These issues can occur during development or result from an accident or injury. Orthopaedic providers with pediatric certification attend an extra year of schooling to learn the unique skeletal structure (and the special treatment methods) of infants, children and adolescents.

When to Schedule an Appointment

In many cases, your primary care provider can see your child after an injury and provide treatment options. More serious injuries may be referred to a pediatric orthopaedist for further testing and evaluation.

Watch for non-verbal injury cues, such as limping or not using the affected limb, and listen for complaints of pain after normal activities or sleep.

If your child has a repeat injury, such as landing oddly on a previously injured knee or shoulder, it may be wise to schedule directly with a specialist.

What Diagnosis and Treatment Can Look Like

When scheduling your appointment, your pediatric orthopaedist will likely recommend a physical exam and imaging, such as an X-ray or an MRI, to inspect the injured area. Common injuries included fractures and ligament damage. Since children have growth plates, children’s fractures often need special care and attention to treatment.

Treatment may include surgery, to reset a bone or repair damaged tissue, followed by casting or splinting to minimize movement. Most fractures can be treated without surgery but should be monitored.

If you are concerned about your child’s injury requiring more than just standard care, ask your primary care provider about referring to Boys Town Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.