The most common complaints in pediatric orthopedics consultations

The modern lifestyle presents numerous challenges for children, particularly in terms of physical activity. Parents, who witness their children moving less and less each day, often worry about their physical health. A sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, and carrying heavy school bags can all contribute to the development of postural disorders and deformities. Prevention is crucial, as many problems can be avoided with the right lifestyle.

Unfortunately, many parents are often unaware that their child’s complaints stem from a sedentary lifestyle. Overweight school-aged children who spend a lot of time sitting in front of the television or computer often experience pain. Visits to orthopedic clinics could often be avoided if problems were addressed in a timely manner. Instead of medication, regular exercise and proper nutrition are of utmost importance.

For children, it is sufficient to choose at least half an hour of active sports daily, which they can enjoy. Parents should support their children’s choices in selecting forms of exercise, as joyful sports are much more effective than forced training.

Problems with Limbs

Problems related to limbs, such as flat feet, affect many children. Flat feet refer to the lack of an arch structure in the foot, which has not yet developed in newborns but should form later during the child’s development. The main goal of preventing flat feet is to strengthen the foot muscles and promote proper posture.

Flat feet is a common diagnosis at pediatric orthopedic clinics, caused by various factors such as weakness in the foot muscles, being overweight, or improper posture. Foot exercises, such as walking on the outer edge of the foot or standing on tiptoes, can help in developing the proper foot arch. Additionally, wearing supinating shoes is recommended if the child’s ankles roll in, as these help position the foot correctly.

Raising the inner heel of shoes can also be beneficial in preventing flat feet. Parents play a crucial role in maintaining their children’s foot health, as proper footwear and regular foot exercises are essential for development.

Scoliosis and Its Consequences

Scoliosis, or spinal curvature, refers to the abnormal bending of the spine caused by the displacement of vertebrae. This problem affects not only adults but is also common among adolescents. The onset of scoliosis can be attributed to various reasons, such as lack of movement or overexertion. Parents should pay attention to their children’s posture and the amount of movement, as symptoms of scoliosis typically appear during the teenage years.

Common signs of scoliosis include uneven shoulder and hip heights, as well as the position of the head relative to the body’s axis. Specialists usually recommend physical therapy; however, many parents mistakenly interpret this as an exemption from physical education classes. It is important to emphasize that regular movement, even in cases of scoliosis, is essential for the child’s development.

Depending on the severity of the scoliosis, wearing a brace may be necessary, and in severe cases, surgical intervention may occur. Surgical corrections are possible not only for adults but also for children, so parents should regularly check the condition of their children’s spines. Continuous medical monitoring can help with the early detection and treatment of problems.

In the fight against a sedentary lifestyle and poor posture, cooperation between parents and children is key. Choosing appropriate forms of exercise and regular medical check-ups can contribute to maintaining children’s health, thus preventing more serious orthopedic problems later on.