Children are naturally inclined to be active and energetic, and so it is natural that they may end up with accidental injuries. In addition, parents are often concerned whether their children are developing properly, particularly if they have an underlying condition. Learn what paediatric orthopaedics encompasses, as well as how it benefits your child when visiting an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore.
What is paediatric orthopaedics?
Paediatric orthopaedics is a branch of orthopaedics that specialises in treating injuries and various orthopaedic conditions in infants, children, and teens. Children’s bodies function differently from adults as they are still in the development phase of their lives, with constant bone, muscle, and brain growth. For example, children’s bones have growth plates which affect their future structure and length, and can result in underdevelopment or deformities if damaged.
Common conditions that orthopaedic clinics in Singapore treat under paediatric orthopaedics include bone injuries such as fractures, developmental conditions such as hip dysplasia, congenital muscular dystrophy, and flatfeet, as well as deformities that affect the spine, arm, and feet, amongst others. Paediatric lower limb orthopaedic specialists are well-versed in children’s developmental milestones across the years, such as being able to walk on their own and proper motor coordination. They are also familiar with the most appropriate treatment methods, providing expert evidence-based reassurance and support to comfort both children and their parents.
How does paediatric orthopaedics benefit my child?
Paediatric orthopaedic clinics in Singapore offer various benefits for your child’s health and wellbeing. Firstly, they provide a swift and accurate diagnosis of underlying orthopaedic conditions and deliver prompt treatment. In cases such as developmental dysplasia of the hip, it can result in permanently reduced mobility, pain, and discomfort if left untreated. Paediatric orthopaedic specialists treat hip dysplasia in infants using a soft brace, which holds the joint firmly in place to help it properly mould. For more severe cases, hip spica or casting may also be required.
Secondly, timely and effective treatment at an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore allows children to fully recover and return to an active lifestyle. Common treatment methods for bone fractures include splints to reduce swelling, casts to provide protection and reduce unnecessary movement, and surgery for severe cases. In addition, paediatric orthopaedic specialists help children reduce the risk of a recurring injury by incorporating strengthening and rehabilitative exercises. This allows children not only to grow up physically healthy but mentally as well through proper interaction and mental stimulation.
Thirdly, paediatric orthopaedics educates parents on how to best help their child develop healthily, particularly since children are often too young to take care of their own health. In the case of flatfeet, specialists observe your child’s abnormal walking gait and recommend various solutions, such as custom orthotics shaped to your child’s feet, basic strengthening exercises to do at home, as well as supportive shoes to prevent further injury. In severe cases , some children may need surgical intervention to prevent deterioration of the flatfeet. Surgical intervention in children is done by inserting a simple stent to hold up the arch in children. In addition, being more aware of your child’s developmental milestones allows parents to track their child’s growth and development on their own, allowing them to seek early treatment for their child if necessary.
When bringing your child to visit an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore, paediatric orthopaedic specialists will first ask about your child’s health, lifestyle, and family history. From there, they will carry out a thorough physical examination to assess elements such as joint movement changes, areas of pain, as well as joint stability. They will then recommend various treatment methods, such as physical therapy, strengthening and rehabilitative exercises, as well as surgery if required.
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