Pediatric Orthopedics Specialist

What is pediatric orthopedics?

Pediatric orthopedics is a specialized area of orthopedic medicine. Orthopedic physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and muscles.

The pediatric orthopedic specialists at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates have additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal problems in children. Children require specialized orthopedic care because their bodies are still growing.

Any injury, damage, or abnormality that affects their musculoskeletal system may affect their normal growth and development. 

When providing care for your child, the pediatric orthopedic physicians at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates offer treatments that focus on healing the problem without interfering with your child’s expected growth. 

What conditions benefit from pediatric orthopedics?

Any condition that affects your child’s musculoskeletal system benefits from a consultation with the pediatric orthopedic team at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates.

Types of conditions include:

• Strains and sprains
• Sports injuries
• Auto injuries
• Fractures
• Spinal abnormality (kyphosis, scoliosis)
• Limb abnormalities (club foot, limb length discrepancies)
• Joint pain
• Bone pain
• Bone infections
• Bone tumors
• Gait abnormalities

To offer the immediate care you need for those unexpected injuries, Valdosta Orthopedic Associates has a walk-in clinic where they can provide expert pediatric orthopedic care for your child.

What happens during a pediatric orthopedics consultation?

The specifics of your pediatric orthopedics consultation may depend on your child’s musculoskeletal problem and age. 

Your provider asks detailed questions about your concerns. For injuries, they also ask for details about the activity that led to the injury.

Your provider reviews your child’s medical history and performs a physical exam. To confirm or rule out a diagnosis, the Valdosta Orthopedic Associates team runs in-office diagnostic imaging, which may include digital X-rays or an open MRI.

Unlike the traditional MRI, the open MRI at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates is open on the sides and well-tolerated by most children. It’s also a lot quieter than the conventional MRI. 

What are pediatric orthopedic treatments?

When it comes to pediatric orthopedic care, treatment plans are customized to match your child’s specific musculoskeletal problem and growth and developmental needs. 

Treatment may include:

• Activity modification
• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation
• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Physical therapy
• Bracing, casting, or splinting

In some cases, the pediatric orthopedic specialists recommend surgery to correct your child’s musculoskeletal problem. 

No matter your child’s need, the team works closely with you to ensure your child gets the best care possible.

To schedule an appointment with the pediatric orthopedics experts at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates, call or book an appointment online today.