Only a board certified and fellowship trained Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon has the experience to manage numerous musculoskeletal conditions in the pediatric (i.e. newborns to college years) population with and without surgical intervention. First, a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon must complete a 5 year residency in General Orthopedics (following 4 years of Medical School). Additionally, a 1 year fellowship follows residency that focuses on pediatric, adolescent, and young adult orthopedics. A board certified and fellowship trained Pediatric Orthopedic surgeon receives training in many facets of orthopedics, with the common thread of the younger population. Conservative (i.e. non-surgical) and surgical treatments of the upper extremities, spine, pelvis, and lower extremities are implemented as indicated. Common conditions treated include fractures (including hand and foot surgery) as well as sports related injuries including sprains and strains of the elbows / shoulders / knees / ankles. Correction of congenital extremity deformities are necessary for conditions such as trigger thumbs, hip dysplasia, and clubfeet. Scoliosis management is also treated by a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon. The Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America (https://posna.org/) has a link to help you find an orthopedist for your child.
