A paediatric orthopaedic and trauma surgeon diagnoses and treats bone, joint and other musculoskeletal problems in babies, children and teenagers. Because a child’s body is still growing, orthopaedic problems in children are assessed and treated differently from those in adults.
At Baltic American Clinic, children are seen for problems with walking, foot position, joint mobility, limb deformities, injuries and other orthopaedic conditions. The clinic also performs hip ultrasound in babies and provides conservative treatment of developmental hip dislocation.
Orthopaedic assessment appropriate to the child’s age and growth.
Hip ultrasound in babies according to medical indications.
Diagnosis of flat feet, limb alignment and other changes.
Assessment of bone and joint injuries in children and treatment planning.
When does a child need to see a paediatric orthopaedic and trauma surgeon?
- A hip development problem is suspected. The paediatrician has recommended further examination or risk factors for hip dysplasia have been identified.
- Unusual walking. The child limps, trips often or places their feet unusually when walking.
- Foot deformities. The feet are noticeably turned, or flat feet are painful or getting worse.
- Joint pain. The child complains of pain in the knee, hip, ankle or other joints.
- Changes in limb position. The position of the legs or arms is a concern, a deformity is increasing or is asymmetrical.
- Sports and everyday injuries. Pain, swelling or limited movement persists after an injury.
- Symptoms that appear during growth. Pain or loss of function makes it difficult to walk, play sport or sleep.
Not every unusual feature of a child’s feet or legs is a disease. Some are physiological and change as the child grows.
What happens during the consultation?
Talking with the parents and the child
The doctor discusses the child’s development, movement, complaints, previous injuries and family medical history.
Orthopaedic examination
Posture, gait, joint mobility, limb alignment and muscle function are assessed.
Tests according to indications
Babies may have a hip ultrasound. For older children, other imaging tests are ordered if needed.
Treatment and monitoring plan
The doctor explains whether treatment, special aids, a follow-up examination or a consultation with another specialist is needed.
Which orthopaedic problems in children are treated?
Hip development disorders
Hip dysplasia and other developmental problems are assessed. Early diagnosis helps choose appropriate care in good time.
If needed, a hip ultrasound is performed in babies. If there are medical indications, conservative treatment of developmental hip dislocation may be used.
Foot and gait disorders
The doctor assesses whether the changes are normal for the child’s age, whether they cause symptoms and whether treatment is needed.
The position of the feet, features of the child’s gait, pain and the child’s mobility are taken into account.
Limb injuries
Immobilisation, monitoring and other treatments chosen according to the injury may be used.
The need for treatment and follow-up examination is decided according to the nature of the injury, the child’s age and how healing progresses.
Joint and tendon problems
Pain, limited movement and problems related to physical activity are assessed.
If movement needs to be improved or restored after an injury, the doctor may recommend rehabilitation for children.
Which tests may be ordered?
Diagnosis of orthopaedic problems in children depends on age, symptoms and the results of the orthopaedic examination.
Hip ultrasound in babies
An ultrasound examination that helps assess how a baby’s hips are developing and detect possible changes. The doctor decides whether and when the test is needed, taking into account the clinical examination and risk factors.
Other imaging tests
For older children, if there are medical indications, additional imaging tests may be ordered to assess the condition of the bones and joints or the nature of an injury.
Not every child needs additional tests – the need for them is decided individually.
How to prepare for the consultation
No special preparation is usually needed. We recommend:
- Previous tests. Bring the results of any previous tests and your child’s health records relating to the problem.
- Baby’s clothing. Choose clothes that are easy to take off so that the doctor can carry out the orthopaedic examination comfortably.
- Child’s footwear. If you are coming about walking or foot position, it is helpful for an older child to wear the shoes they usually wear.
When is urgent help needed?
If, after an injury, a child cannot put weight on a leg, the limb is deformed, there is severe pain or loss of sensation, urgent medical assessment is needed.
A sudden limp together with a fever or severe hip or knee pain also requires immediate help.
Important. If these symptoms are present, do not wait for a planned consultation with an orthopaedic and trauma surgeon. In life-threatening situations, call 112.
Frequently asked questions
When does a baby need a hip ultrasound?
Whether and when the test is needed depends on the clinical examination, risk factors and the doctor’s recommendations.
Do all flat feet in children need treatment?
No. Flexible, painless flat feet are often a normal variant of development in childhood. The need for treatment is assessed individually.
Can my child play sport if their knee hurts?
Until the cause of the pain has been found, it is advisable to adjust the level of activity. The doctor will assess when it is safe to return to sport.
Can orthotic insoles correct any foot deformity?
No. Insoles can help reduce certain symptoms, but whether they are needed and how well they work depends on the specific condition.
Is a follow-up examination needed after an injury in childhood?
In some cases, yes, especially if the injury involves a growth plate or symptoms persist.
Price of a paediatric orthopaedic and trauma surgeon consultation
The price of a paediatric orthopaedic and trauma surgeon consultation is set by the Baltic American Clinic price list in force.
Hip ultrasound, other diagnostic tests, immobilisation and additional procedures not included in the consultation price are charged separately according to the price list in force.
The need for additional tests and procedures and the expected costs are discussed during the consultation.