Does Your Child Need an Orthopedic Specialist?

Choosing the right healthcare professional for your child is an important step in providing for their well-being and development. This article discusses the importance of choosing an orthopedic specialist to help your child with orthopedic issues. 

We will talk about what general orthopedic surgeons do and why your child might need to see one. We will also help you prepare for your child’s appointment so you can enjoy a smooth experience.

If your child needs to see a specialist about a musculoskeletal injury or condition, call Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio. Our orthopedic specialists offer personalized treatment plans to suit your child’s unique needs.

What is an Orthopedic Surgeon?

An orthopedic surgeon is a specialized doctor who treats patients with conditions related to their musculoskeletal system. This can include conditions affecting their muscles, bones, and joints.

The training and experience that orthopedic surgeons have qualify them to perform orthopedic surgery when necessary. However, they can also provide non-surgical treatments, like casts or limb braces. 

What Can an Orthopedic Surgeon Do for Children?

General orthopedic surgeons can treat many musculoskeletal injuries and conditions found in children, as they understand the unique differences that these issues present themselves in comparison to adults. 

A young patient’s body is very different from an adult’s. For example, a child’s bones will heal quicker than adult bones and, therefore, require immediate and accurate attention to ensure proper healing.

Orthopedic surgeons use a variety of surgical and non-surgical treatments to treat children. When you see an orthopedic surgeon, they will tailor a specific treatment plan for your child.

Additionally, orthopedic surgeons understand the differences between discussing medical conditions with children and adults. The way children process their injuries and conditions is different from the way an adult may process them.

A young girl visiting a general orthopedic specialist in Granville, Ohio.

Why Does Your Child Need an Orthopedic Specialist?

Your child may be referred to an orthopedic surgeon by their pediatrician to treat a musculoskeletal condition. A specialist in this area is usually recommended because orthopedic surgeons understand a child’s muscular-skeletal system very well. 

The conditions that a general orthopedic surgeon treats may include the following:

  • Ankle or foot surgeries
  • Abnormalities in the growing process
  • Bone and joint infections
  • Broken bones
  • Clubfoot
  • Issues walking or moving
  • Limb deformities
  • Nerve issues
  • Problems walking
  • Scoliosis
  • Sports injuries
  • Spinal issues like cerebral palsy


If you have any concerns about your child’s health, it’s essential to get a referral from your child’s pediatrician. Alternatively, you can request an appointment with our highly trained doctors at Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine.

How to Prepare for Your Child’s Visit

When preparing for your child’s initial visit to an orthopedic surgeon, it’s important to gather any relevant medical records and insurance details. During the appointment, you and your child will provide information regarding their symptoms and medical background to the specialist. Your child should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for the examination.

The orthopedic surgeon will ask your child about their concerns and conduct a thorough examination, which may involve various diagnostic tests, such as MRI or X-ray scans, depending on the situation. Following the diagnosis, the doctor will outline a personalized treatment plan, which could include options like casting, bracing, physical therapy, or surgical intervention tailored to address your child’s specific condition.

Our orthopedic surgeons understand how to build rapport with young patients. They will communicate with them according to their age and understanding. Our offices have a welcoming environment conducive to your child’s comfort and engagement.

Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Today

Are you ready to give your child the specialized orthopedic care they deserve? Schedule an appointment with Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine in Granville and Coshocton, OH, today! 

Our compassionate team is dedicated to helping your child thrive from infancy through adolescence. Contact us now to take the first step toward a healthier, happier future for your young one!


Medically reviewed by
Edward L. Westerheide, M.D.

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