
Orthopaedic care isn’t just for adults or for the injured. Younger individuals can benefit from this field of medicine as well.
What Types of Orthopaedic Conditions Happen Among Younger Patients?
Adolescent bodies grow rapidly, and much can happen during that time. Children can be born with certain conditions that get worse when left untreated as they age, or young athletes may encounter injuries that require specialized care. We’ll go over some common orthopaedic conditions that can happen in adolescent patients.
Scoliosis
It’s not uncommon for children to be born with scoliosis. This is a condition that can greatly affect them as they age, but proper treatment can help correct scoliosis or keep it from progressing. Sometimes, the curving of the spine may not happen until a child’s teen years. Regardless of when scoliosis takes form, an orthopaedic doctor may suggest treatment options like physical therapy to help improve posture and strengthen the muscles in the back.
Learn more about our comprehensive spine care services to see what we can do for scoliosis in young patients.
Sports Injuries
Young athletes are faced with the risk of injury every time they perform practice or take part in games. The longer you procrastinate treatment, the higher the chance of permanent injury. No matter if the injury involves a sprain, tear, or fracture, early diagnosis can help the doctor confirm the gravity of the injury and suggest the best orthopaedic treatment options usually involving bracing, physical therapy, or surgery.
How Early Diagnosis and Treatment Can Make a Difference
Early detection in young patients is key to ensuring a future of healthy living. Take a look at the different ways that prompt diagnosis and treatment can make a difference in the lives of the youth:
- Prevents the progression of orthopaedic conditions
- Reduces the risk of debilitating symptoms
- Mitigates any future pain or injuries
- Promotes healthy bodies as they grow
- Relieves pain and discomfort for happy living
Types of Treatment That Youths May Need
Orthopaedic care for youth can include surgical and nonsurgical options depending on the injury or condition being treated.
For physical injuries like those sustained during sports-related accidents, our orthopaedic doctors may recommend effective recovery methods like physical therapy, bracing, casting, or splinting. Physical therapy can help young athletes regain mobility and strength after an injury, and supportive devices like braces and splints can keep the injured area preserved during the healing process. Delaying diagnostics and neglecting proper care can cause accident injuries to escalate and possibly become chronic.
For serious orthopaedic conditions like deformities or severe injuries, younger patients may have to undergo surgery. Early detection can indicate the need for corrective surgical procedures or implants that can help support the body during recovery.
We Treat Orthopaedic Conditions In Youth at OMG
Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay prioritizes early diagnostics and treatment for orthopaedic conditions in youth. Contact us today for a consultation to see how we can help your child grow happy and healthy!