Pediatric Orthopedics

Caring for children with muscoloskeletal problems presents a specialized field of orthopedic surgery. Due to their high activity levels and immature skeletons, children often incur various injuries, including fractures. Treatment of their fractures is different than for adults due to their still-active bone growth plates. Special care must be taken to avoid damage to the growth plate that can lead to problems with later bone growth.

Children may encounter other unique musculoskeletal conditions, including clubfoot, congenital hip dislocation (also known as developmental dysplasia of the hip) and infections in bones and joints. At Ministry Saint Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Marshfield, partnering with Marshfield Clinic pediatric physicians and surgeons, provides a substantial portion of treatment for children with musculoskeletal injuries, deformities and diseases.