Orthopaedics covers the entire musculoskeletal system, including fractures, tendinitis, sprains, and strains. It also addresses congenital conditions such as knock-knees, clubfoot, and scoliosis.
Children are resilient, which can lead us to misinterpret orthopaedic problems as normal growing pains. Dr. Brandon Downs recognizes these distinctions in children and provides comprehensive orthopaedic care at Orthopaedic Specialists.
Dr. Downs treats orthopaedic and sports injuries, including knee, rotator cuff, and ankle pain. He offers treatments like PRP injections, physical therapy, and cartilage repair.
Children are extremely resilient, so it can be hard to tell when they’re hurt or have an orthopaedic condition. Even if you notice something obvious, your child may not complain, and you might ignore the issue.
Several orthopaedic conditions affect kids, including bow legs, knock knees, toe walking, flat feet, in-toeing, and out-toeing.
Most of these conditions resolve naturally, as children typically outgrow them. However, prompt evaluation is necessary if the issue persists. Asking your child regularly how they are feeling is a great way to unveil issues that may be difficult to see.
Parents may overlook minor injuries, as some children prefer playing over resting. Overuse injuries get missed frequently because their symptoms develop gradually.
Overuse injuries like tendinitis, stress fractures, and growth plate injuries may cause mild symptoms that improve with rest. Growth plate injuries need specialized care to ensure proper bone growth.
However, stress fractures, jumper’s knee, Sever’s disease, and Osgood-Schlatter disease may continue to worsen without the proper treatment. It’s essential to keep an eye on your child and watch for worsening symptoms, such as limping, increased pain, swelling, or inflammation.
Some pediatric orthopaedic issues improve with age, while others need ongoing monitoring and expert care. Seek care if your child complains of pain or after an injury you observe symptoms.
Early treatment leads to better outcomes. We provide diagnostics and treatments for childhood orthopaedic issues.
At the appointment, Dr. Downs evaluates your child’s symptoms, performs a physical assessment, and orders diagnostic studies to determine the issue.
We base your treatment on exam findings, test results, and your child’s activity level. Dr. Downs usually begins with conservative care but may recommend surgery for severe cases.
You can rest easy knowing your child is in good hands. Dr. Downs is an experienced orthopaedic surgeon providing compassionate, state-of-the-art care for adult and pediatric orthopaedic conditions.
Don’t let orthopaedic issues slow your child down. To schedule an appointment for your child with Dr. Downs at Orthopaedic Specialists, call any of our five Nashville offices or visit our website to request a consultation online today.
