Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons treating Orthopedic Trauma

ORTHOPEDIC TRAUMA

Orthopedic Trauma typically refers to an injury caused by some external force, such as a severe fall, a serious accident, or even a violent attack. These injuries occur in the musculoskeletal system, including bones, cartilage, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons of the body.

If your child needs surgery or casting, our Fracture Care Clinic opens every day and you do not need an appointment. Surgery rooms get scheduled every morning, so your child receives the care and attention they need right away.

Orthopedic Trauma

Orthopedic trauma refers to a medical condition that involves any injury to the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This condition can occur due to a variety of reasons, including falls, sports injuries, car accidents, or even natural disasters. Orthopedic trauma can cause severe pain, immobility, and long-term disability if not treated promptly and effectively. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, prevention measures, and recovery time associated with this condition.

Causes 

There are several causes of orthopedic trauma, including falls, sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, and natural disasters. Falls are the most common cause of injury, particularly among older adults, who are more prone to fractures due to weakened bones. Sports injuries, such as torn ligaments, sprains, and fractures, are also common among athletes of all ages. Motor vehicle accidents can result in severe orthopedic trauma, ranging from fractures to spinal cord injuries. Finally, natural disasters, such as earthquakes or tornadoes, can cause severe injury leading to amputations, fractures, or crush injuries.

Types of Orthopedic Trauma

Orthopedic trauma can affect any part of the musculoskeletal system. The most common types of this trauma include fractures, dislocations, sprains, strains, and tendon and ligament injuries. Fractures occur when a bone breaks or cracks due to trauma, while dislocations occur when a joint is forced out of its normal position. Sprains and strains occur when ligaments and muscles are stretched or torn due to trauma, while tendon injuries occur when tendons, which connect muscles to bones, are torn or ruptured.

Symptoms 

The symptoms of orthopedic trauma can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. However, common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, limited range of motion, deformity, and difficulty bearing weight or walking. In severe cases, an injury from trauma can cause nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

How can I tell if my child's injury is serious, and when should I seek medical attention?

It can be challenging to determine the severity of an injury, but there are some signs that may indicate a more serious problem. If your child experiences any of the following, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention:

  • Severe pain and inability to bear weight on the injured limb.
  • Visible deformity or misalignment of a bone or joint.
  • Open wounds or bone protrusion.
  • Numbness, tingling, or loss of circulation in the affected area.
  • Severe swelling and bruising.
  • Limited or painful joint movement.
What is the typical treatment for orthopedic trauma in children?

Treatment for orthopedic trauma depends on the specific injury. However, common treatments may include:

  • Immobilization: Splints, casts, or braces may be used to stabilize the injured area and promote healing.
  • Reduction: In some cases, a healthcare provider may need to manipulate or realign the bones or joints to restore their proper position.
  • Surgery: Severe fractures or injuries may require surgical intervention, such as pinning, plating, or internal fixation.
  • Physical therapy: Rehabilitation and physical therapy can help restore strength and range of motion during recovery.
  • Pain management: Medications and pain management techniques may be used to alleviate discomfort.
How long will it take for my child to recover from an orthopedic trauma?
  • The recovery time varies depending on the type and severity of the injury. Generally, it may take several weeks to months for a child to fully recover. The healthcare provider will provide a more specific timeline based on the injury. Factors influencing recovery include the child’s age, overall health, compliance with treatment, and the extent of physical therapy and rehabilitation. It’s essential for parents to support their child’s recovery by ensuring they follow the recommended treatment plan and attend all necessary follow-up appointments.

These are general guidelines, and it’s important for parents to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized information and guidance regarding their child’s orthopedic trauma. Proper medical evaluation and care are crucial to ensure the best possible outcome for the child’s recovery.

The doctors at the Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists Practice only treat children.  As such, our doctors have become experts with children and adolescents and treat their broken bones.  We urge parents to bring their children to us to ensure proper broken bone treatment.

Diagnosis of Orthopedic Trauma

To diagnose orthopedic trauma, a healthcare provider will perform a physical examination, review the patient’s medical history, and order diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. These tests can help identify the location and severity of the injury, as well as any associated complications, such as nerve damage or internal bleeding.

Treatment 

Orthopedic TraumaThe treatments for orthopedic trauma depend on the type and severity of the injury. In some cases, non-surgical treatments may be sufficient to promote healing and relieve pain, while in other cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to restore function and mobility.

Non-Surgical Treatments: Non-surgical treatments for orthopedic trauma may include immobilization, physical therapy, and medication. Immobilization involves the use of splints, casts, or braces to support and protect the injured area and prevent further damage. Physical therapy involves exercises and other therapies to improve mobility, flexibility, and strength. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or analgesics may be prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation.

Surgical Treatments: Surgical interventions may be necessary for severe orthopedic trauma. The most common surgical treatments for orthopedic trauma include fracture reduction, joint replacement, and tendon or ligament repair. Fracture reduction involves realigning the broken bone and stabilizing it with pins, screws, or plates. Joint replacement involves removing damaged or arthritic joints and replacing them with artificial ones. Tendon or ligament repair involves repairing or replacing damaged tendons or ligaments to restore function and mobility.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is an essential part of the treatment process for orthopedic trauma. After surgery or immobilization, physical therapy may be necessary to help the patient regain strength, mobility, and function in the affected area. Rehabilitation may involve exercises to improve range of motion, strength training, and other therapies to promote healing and recovery.

Pain Management

Pain management is also an important aspect of the treatment process for orthopedic trauma. Medications such as NSAIDs or analgesics may be prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation. In some cases, nerve blocks or other pain management techniques may be necessary to manage severe or chronic pain.

Prevention of Orthopedic Trauma:

There are several measures that individuals can take to prevent orthopedic trauma, including wearing appropriate protective gear during sports and other physical activities, using proper techniques when lifting heavy objects, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen to improve bone density and strength, and avoiding risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Recovery Time for Orthopedic Trauma:

The recovery time for orthopedic trauma depends on several factors, including the type and severity of the injury, the age and overall health of the patient, and the effectiveness of the treatment. Minor injuries, such as sprains and strains, may take several weeks to heal, while more severe injuries, such as fractures or joint replacements, may take several months or even years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the treatments for orthopedic trauma vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. Non-surgical treatments such as immobilization, physical therapy, and medication may be sufficient for minor injuries, while surgical interventions such as fracture reduction, joint replacement, or tendon repair may be necessary for more severe injuries. Rehabilitation and pain management are also essential components of the treatment process for orthopedic trauma. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific injury.

Request An Appointment For Your Child’s Orthopedic Trauma

The Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists has been providing excellent fracture care for many years. We focus on improving the long-term health of your child’s bones. If your child is in pain as a result of a broken bone, call one of our compassionate experts at 214-556-0590 to schedule an appointment with us. Finally, we offer personalized treatment and urgent pediatric care services at all of our four locations — Arlington, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco, and McKinney, TX.  If you notice any symptoms that your child has suffered trauma, don’t hesitate to contact us to avoid complications.

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Footnote:

Orthopaedic Trauma Association: Orthopedic trauma

Call 214-556-0590 to make an appointment.

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