Clubfoot (Pes Equinovarus)

Due to various environmental or genetic factors  It is one of the common disorders in developing babies.  There is a slight inward turning of one or both feet.

It is necessary to start clubfoot treatment immediately after diagnosis.

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Delays in treatment make it difficult for the problem to respond to treatment. The aim of the treatment is to provide a painless foot that will allow the baby to step on and walk.  The ideal result is to complete the treatment before the child starts walking. In the treatment, attempts are made to correct the pathology by applying serial casts. Corrective surgery to the Achilles tendon may be required during the treatment process. In some resistant patients, loosening and lengthening operations on the connective tissue, tendons and joint capsules may be required. With early and correct treatment, painless and functional feet that are close to normal can be achieved.

 

Congenital Hip Dislocation

Congenital hip dislocation occurs when the hip joint in babies does not develop properly. Normally, the hip joint connects the thigh bone to the pelvis. In congenital hip dislocation, the socket of the hip joint is not deep enough and the femur cannot fully attach. In some advanced cases, the femur may become dislocated. It is more common in the left hip.

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If early diagnosis and treatment is not applied, it can cause serious disability. Therefore, every newborn baby should be evaluated by an orthopedic specialist for congenital hip dislocation. Hip ultrasonography is important in making a diagnosis at an early stage. In the following months, hip x-rays are guiding.

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If congenital hip dislocation is diagnosed early, it can be easily treated with simple measures. Successful results are generally achieved with precautions and treatments applied before the baby starts walking. While it can be treated with special bandages in the early period, it is treated with plaster cast from the 6th month and with surgery after the age of 1. If congenital hip dislocation is not treated correctly, it can cause pain and posture disorders.

 

Neck Curvature (Torticollis)

 Curved neck disease is caused by a problem in the neck muscles. It may be congenital or may appear later.   Neck curvature occurs when the neck muscles shorten for some reason. The head leans towards the shorter side. Birth trauma can be caused by posture disorders of the baby while in the womb.

 The main findings of neck curvature are:

• Tilting the head to one side

• Restriction of head and neck movements

• Swelling and stiffness in neck muscles

• Head and neck pain

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Physical examination performed by the doctor is important in diagnosing neck curvature. In this examination, the degree of curvature and the structure of the neck muscles are examined. As further examination, neck X-ray, Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance can be performed. Treatment is determined according to the cause of the neck curvature. Physical therapy practices are at the forefront in treatment. Surgery is rarely performed.

 

Flat Insoles

Flat feet can be explained as the absence of a curve on the inside of the foot and the sole of the foot completely contacting the ground when stepped on. All babies are born with flat feet. Foot arches develop over time. It does not require any special treatment until the age of 6. But care should be taken when choosing shoes.

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The diagnosis of flat feet is usually made by examination. In some cases, the foot is imaged with Computed Tomography.  Its incidence is increased in those with connective tissue problems, in those who are obese, and in those whose parents have flat feet. In advanced cases, treatment options include physical therapy methods and surgical treatments.

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Introversion

Normally, adults walk with their feet flat or slightly pointing outwards. However, incontinence is a common condition in babies and children, and it worries families especially. When the child starts walking, it attracts attention, especially during fast walking. Although instep is considered a foot problem, angle differences in the hip joint or shin bone are usually at the forefront.

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Families may have fears that the child will have problems walking or not being able to do sports. Intoeing does not cause pain and does not cause any problems in daily life. Children with this condition can be active and successful in sports. Introversion is usually related to genetic factors. Their parents may have a similar situation. Intoeing is not generally considered a pathology. Wear is noticeable on the inner back part of the shoes.

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Since introversion is not considered a disease, treatment is usually not needed. Orthotics, foot supports and physical therapy may be used for treatment. Choosing the right shoes is especially important. In some cases, the disorder in the hip, knee or foot is severe. In this case, surgery may rarely be needed.

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Perthes Disease

Although Perthes disease is rare, it is a disorder that needs to be emphasized because its diagnosis and treatment are difficult. It is seen in childhood, especially between the ages of 3-9. At this age, there are complaints in the form of hip and knee pain. Complaints increase with physical activity and disappear with rest. In Perthes disease, the pathology is the disruption of blood circulation in the hip bone for an unknown reason. In addition, the roundness of the femur head is lost and the femur tends to come out of its socket.

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Close follow-up in treatment is determined according to the stage of the disease and the status of the complaints. Physical therapy, exercise and, if necessary, surgeries can be performed to help keep the femur in the hip joint. The course of the disease is very variable. Outcomes are better in children diagnosed and treated at an early age.

 

Childhood Fractures

Fractures are frequently observed during childhood, especially because children are active. Due to continuing bone development in children, irregular unions generally do not cause problems and complete recovery occurs.  

Common fractures in children include:

• Elbow area fractures

• Forearm fractures

• leg fractures

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Early treatment of fractures is very important. Vessels and nerves passing through the fracture areas can be damaged and cause permanent problems. Treatment of fractures varies depending on the region and type of fracture. While cast treatment is sufficient for some fractures, surgery is inevitable in some cases. If we think that the child has developed a fracture, the first thing to do is to ensure that the fracture area remains immobile. Cold application is required to this area.  An orthopedic specialist should be contacted as soon as possible.

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