Paediatrics is that branch of medicine which involves the medical care of infants, children and adolescents. According to the American Academy of Paediatrics people under the age of 21 are recommended to be under Paediatric care. Paediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in taking care of this field .However, that branch of medicine concerned with conditions involving the musculo skeletal system is called orthopaedic. Paediatric Orthopaedic is a specialist service which provides surgical and non-surgical treatment for conditions affecting children.
Thus, we can say that a Paediatric Orthopaedic is one who is trained and experienced doctor to professionally treat musculoskeletal (bone, joint, or muscle) problems in a child who is still growing. This includes newborn babies through teenagers.
What is the Role of a Paediatric Orthopaedic surgeon ?
Training required to be a Paediatric Orthopaedic surgeon:
- Doctors who have graduated from an approved medical school.
- Also, Doctors who have graduated from an approved surgery residency program that is Orthopaedic.
- Doctors also must complete an additional subspecialty training in Paediatric Orthopaedics and Paediatric spinal deformity.
The types of problems a Paediatric Orthopaedic usually treats:
The musculoskeletal problems of a child are different from those of an adult. Their treatment methods are also not the same for an adult and child. However, children with complex problems are treated by Paediatric Orthopaedics. Paediatric Orthopaedic surgeons generally treat, diagnose, operate and manage musculoskeletal problems in children like for example: Certain deformities in the limbs and spine which might be noted at birth or later in life. (for example limb Length differences, club foot, scoliosis etc. )
Paediatric Orthopaedics have been extensively and comprehensively trained. They are experts in dealing with children and treating their musculo skeletal problems. One can always take suggestions from their local or primary physician about a paediatric Orthopaedic and where to find them or when to see them. Local clinics, chambers do have a Paediatric Orthopaedic visiting occasionally. However, hospitals and nursing homes do have a Paediatric Orthopaedic surgeon.
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How does a Paediatric Orthopaedic help children?
Children are small and immature. They do not understand things. Also, they cannot always be vocal about what is bothering them or causing them pain. They might not be able to answer medical questions or be patient and cooperative during medical check ups. Thus, a Paediatric Orthopaedic surgeon helps to deal with, treat and examine children in a friendly and relaxed manner. They don’t make them feel scared. And they also appreciate the tension that might be going through the guardian when having a child with musculo skeletal problems. Also, they are experienced in communicating with tensed family members.
The design of the office or rather chambers of most Paediatric Orthopaedic surgeons is usually under the spell of a child’s mindset and the environment he or she prefers. Specially designed equipment, reading materials, children’s magazines, toys are all arranged and kept to help and create a comfortable and light environment for the child that is non-threatening. Thus, going to paediatric orthopaedics is the best option when your child is in some muscular or joint pain.