Abstract
This chapter reviews common congenital and acquired orthopedic conditions of the upper and lower extremities (LEs) in infants, children, and adolescents. Etiology, pathology, conservative and medical interventions, prognosis, and expected outcomes are discussed for each condition. Information regarding differential diagnoses is shared and essential for the pediatric physical therapist who practices under direct access. Specific recommendations for history, examination, outcome measures, and evidence-based interventions provided by a physical therapist are included when appropriate. Indications for referral to another clinician or specialist are provided. Socioeconomic factors which may impact outcomes are discussed for several conditions. Patient and family access to orthopedic specialists, imaging and specialized physical therapy, medical and surgical interventions should be considered for individual conditions.
Upper extremity conditions described include shoulder subluxation and dislocation, nursemaid’s elbow, and fractures. Atypical postural alignment and torsional conditions of the LE are also reviewed. Systemic conditions such as Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, achondroplasia, vascular malformations, and infections are also included in this chapter. Lower extremity conditions presented include, but are not limited to, leg length discrepancy, developmental dysplasia of the hip, Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease, slipped capital femoral epiphysis, discoid meniscus, apophysitis, and idiopathic toe walking. Video-based case studies, available in the electronic book resource, reinforce the learning objectives and content from the chapter.