What Are the Most Common Orthopedic Problems in Children?
Children are constantly growing, moving, and exploring the world around them. While minor falls and aches are often a normal part of childhood, some bone, joint, or muscle issues need medical attention. Pediatric orthopedic problems are different from adult orthopedic conditions because children’s bones are still developing, and early treatment can make a lifelong difference.
Understanding the most common orthopedic problems in children helps parents identify warning signs early and seek timely care. With proper diagnosis and treatment from an experienced specialist, most children can recover fully and grow without long-term complications.
Why Pediatric Orthopedic Care Is Important
Children’s bones are softer, more flexible, and contain growth plates that guide bone development. Problems affecting these growth plates or joints can impact posture, movement, and overall growth if ignored.
Consulting a specialist—such as the Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Pune—ensures that conditions are treated using child-friendly, growth-preserving methods rather than adult orthopedic approaches.
1. Growing Pains
What are growing pains?
Growing pains are one of the most common reasons children complain of leg pain, especially at night. These pains usually affect the thighs, calves, or behind the knees.
Symptoms
- Pain in both legs
- Occurs mostly at night
- No swelling or redness
- Normal activity during the day
When to worry
If pain is persistent, localized to one area, or associated with swelling or limping, it may not be simple growing pains and should be evaluated by an orthopedic specialist.
2. Flat Feet (Pes Planus)
What is flat feet?
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet do not develop properly. Many children naturally have flat feet until the age of 5–6 years.
Symptoms
- Foot fatigue
- Pain after walking or playing
- Uneven shoe wear
- Ankle or knee discomfort
Treatment
Most cases do not need treatment. However, painful flat feet may require exercises, orthotic support, or evaluation by a pediatric orthopedic expert.
3. Bowed Legs and Knock Knees
Bowed Legs
Common in toddlers, bowed legs usually correct themselves by age 2–3.
Knock Knees
More noticeable between ages 3–6, knock knees also typically improve with growth.
When to consult a specialist
- Severe or uneven deformity
- Pain or difficulty walking
- Condition worsening with age
Early assessment by the Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Pune helps rule out nutritional deficiencies or bone disorders.
4. Clubfoot
What is clubfoot?
Clubfoot is a congenital condition where a baby’s foot is twisted inward and downward.
Why early treatment matters
Without treatment, clubfoot can affect walking and mobility. Early intervention, usually within weeks of birth, provides excellent outcomes.
Treatment options
- Casting (Ponseti method)
- Bracing
- Minor surgical procedures in some cases
5. Scoliosis (Spinal Curvature)
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine that often appears during growth spurts.
Signs parents should watch for
- Uneven shoulders
- Tilted waist
- One shoulder blade sticking out
- Back pain in older children
Management
Mild cases may only need monitoring, while moderate to severe cases may require braces or surgery under expert supervision.
6. Sports Injuries in Children
Children involved in sports are at higher risk of orthopedic injuries due to repetitive stress and falls.
Common sports-related injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Fractures
- Ligament injuries
- Tendon inflammation
Importance of proper care
Children should not be treated like “small adults.” A specialist understands how to protect growth plates and prevent future complications.
7. Fractures and Broken Bones
Children’s bones heal faster than adults’, but fractures must still be handled carefully.
Common causes
- Falls while playing
- Bicycle accidents
- Sports injuries
Signs of fracture
- Severe pain
- Swelling
- Visible deformity
- Difficulty moving the limb
Prompt care from the Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Pune ensures correct alignment and proper healing.
8. Growth Plate Injuries
Growth plates are soft areas at the ends of bones that allow growth. Injuries here require immediate attention.
Why they are serious
If not treated properly, growth plate injuries can cause uneven limb length or deformities.
Symptoms
- Pain near joints
- Swelling
- Limited movement
Early diagnosis is critical to prevent long-term issues.
9. Limping in Children
A child who limps without an obvious injury should never be ignored.
Possible causes
- Hip infections
- Leg length differences
- Fractures
- Inflammatory conditions
A thorough evaluation helps identify the cause and start timely treatment.
10. Poor Posture and Spine Problems
Long screen time, heavy school bags, and improper sitting habits can affect a child’s spine.
Common issues
- Rounded shoulders
- Neck pain
- Early spinal imbalance
Guidance from the best pediatric orthopedic consultant in Pune can help correct posture issues before they become permanent.
When Should Parents See an Orthopedic Specialist?
Parents should seek professional advice if their child:
- Has persistent pain
- Walks abnormally or limps
- Shows visible bone or joint deformity
- Suffers repeated injuries
- Has delayed motor milestones
Early consultation with the Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Pune ensures accurate diagnosis, child-specific treatment, and peace of mind for parents.
How Pediatric Orthopedic Conditions Are Diagnosed
Diagnosis may include:
- Physical examination
- Growth assessment
- X-rays or imaging studies
- Gait analysis
The goal is always to use the least invasive and most effective approach.
Treatment Approaches for Children
Most pediatric orthopedic problems can be treated without surgery.
Common treatments include:
- Physiotherapy
- Bracing or orthotics
- Activity modification
- Medications
- Minimally invasive procedures when needed
Surgery is recommended only when absolutely necessary and planned carefully to protect growth.
Long-Term Outlook for Children
With early detection and proper treatment:
- Most children return to normal activities
- Growth remains unaffected
- Long-term complications are rare
Timely care from a trusted orthopedic expert plays a vital role in ensuring healthy development.
Final Thoughts
Orthopedic problems in children are more common than many parents realize—but most are highly treatable when addressed early. Paying attention to symptoms, understanding warning signs, and consulting the right specialist can make a lifelong difference in a child’s mobility and comfort.
Choosing experienced care, such as the Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Pune, ensures that your child receives specialized, compassionate, and growth-friendly treatment tailored to their needs.
FAQs
1. What are the most common orthopedic problems in children?
Common issues include growing pains, flat feet, bowed legs, knock knees, scoliosis, fractures, and sports injuries.
2. Are growing pains normal in children?
Yes, growing pains are common and usually harmless, but persistent or severe pain should be evaluated by a specialist.
3. When should parents consult an orthopedic specialist for their child?
If a child has ongoing pain, limping, visible deformity, delayed walking, or repeated injuries, medical consultation is recommended.
4. Do all pediatric orthopedic problems require surgery?
No, most conditions can be treated with non-surgical methods such as physiotherapy, braces, or activity modification.
5. Can orthopedic problems in children affect growth?
Yes, untreated conditions—especially growth plate injuries—can impact bone development, making early diagnosis important.
6. Are sports injuries common in children?
Yes, active children may experience sprains, fractures, or ligament injuries, which should be treated carefully to protect growth.
7. How are orthopedic problems diagnosed in children?
Diagnosis usually includes a physical exam, growth assessment, and imaging tests like X-rays if needed.
