Health Information Library
LuskinOIC Health Information Library summarizes common reasons patients visit our specialists, covering musculoskeletal conditions and injuries.
The information included on this site is for educational or informational purposes only; it doesn't replace medical advice.
Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on your condition.
A
Abnormal Muscle Tone
A condition where muscle tension is higher (hypotonia) or lower (hypertonia) than normal.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyAbnormal Muscle Tone
Achilles Tendon Injury
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. Common injuries to the Achilles tendon include tears (partial and full) and overuse injuries, typically referred to as tendonitis.
Achilles Tendon Injury
Achilles Tenotomy
Achilles tenotomy is a minor medical procedure for treating babies with clubfoot. A small incision is made to cut the Achilles tendon—the cord behind the heel—as part of the treatment plan with the Ponseti method.
Related Specialties:
Center for ClubfootAchilles Tenotomy
Achondroplasia
Achondroplasia is a genetic disorder that is marked by abnormally slow conversion of cartilage to bone during development. The result is usually a normal torso and shortened limbs. It is the most common type of dwarfism.
Related Specialties:
Skeletal Dysplasia & DwarfismAchondroplasia
Aneurysmal Bone Cyst
An aneurysmal bone cyst is a benign blood-filled lesion that forms on the bone.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsAneurysmal Bone Cyst
Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain happens when an ankle ligament—which is the fibrous tissue that connects one bone to another—gets stretched or torn.
Ankle Sprain
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Sprain or Tear
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is 1 of the 4 major ligaments in the knee and provides stability. A common ACL injury is a sprain or tear.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Sprain or Tear
Anterior Spinal Fusion
Anterior spinal fusion is a surgical procedure performed from the front of the body that is used to treat scoliosis. The goal of all spinal fusion surgeries is to fuse or “weld” together 2 or more of the spinal vertebrae so that they heal into a single, solid bone.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterAnterior Spinal Fusion
Arthrogryposis
Arthrogryposis is a condition in which a baby is born with joint contractures. This means a loss of movement, or a smaller range of motion, in the joint. Normally, joints have stretchy tissue. If there is a contracture, this tissue is replaced by a “non-stretchy” tissue. Without the stretchiness, joints may have a limited range of movement. If extra tissue forms around the joints, they may even be “locked” into place.
Related Specialties:
Center for ClubfootArthrogryposis
Athetosis
Athetosis is a condition that causes slow, involuntary writhing movements in the face and extremities.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyAthetosis
B
Bankart Repair
If a child’s shoulder repeatedly becomes dislocated due to a shoulder injury called a Bankart lesion, a surgeon can perform a Bankart repair. During this surgery, the torn cartilage is repaired and properly reattached to where it needs to be. This restores stability to the shoulder.
Related Specialties:
Center for Sports MedicineBankart Repair
Bone Cancer
Bone cancer is when a malignant tumor forms in any bone in the body. Tumors are abnormal masses or lumps. They’re formed when cells divide out of control, and spread excessively throughout the body. Bone tumors can be found in any bone in the body, and in any part of the bone—from the surface down to the bone marrow.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsBone Cancer
Bone Tumors
A bone tumor is an abnormal mass of tissue that forms on a bone. They can be cancerous or non-cancerous. Most bone tumors are not cancerous, however, they may grow large enough to cause problems and need to be treated.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsBone Tumors
Boots and Bar
A boots and bar or clubfoot brace is a device used with the Ponseti method to treat children with clubfoot, and is the last stage of treatment. The brace consists of boots attached to a bar that’s the same width as the baby’s shoulders, and is designed to help keep feet in a corrected position.
Related Specialties:
Center for ClubfootBoots and Bar
Bowed Legs
Bowed legs, also known as genu varum, are legs that curve outward at the knee and create a space between the knees when the feet are together. The bowing may also happen in 1 leg only.
Bowed Legs
Brachydactyly
Brachydactyly is a congenital limb disorder where the fingers and toes are shorter, due to unusually short bones.
Related Specialties:
Congenital Limb DisorderBrachydactyly
C
Cast Care
Home care instructions for arm and leg casts.
Cast Care
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a description of a group of disorders in posture and movement that occur when there is an injury to the developing brain. It is the most common childhood disability in the United States.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyCerebral Palsy
Cervical Spine Surgery
Cervical spine surgery is a type of neck surgery that involves removing a damaged disc to relieve spinal cord or nerve root pressure.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterCervical Spine Surgery
Chondroblastoma
Chondroblastoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that grows at the end of the long bones, close to the joints. They’re most commonly found in the thigh bone, upper arm bone or shin bone, but the vast majority of these tumors develop and occur around the knee. Although they are non-cancerous, they can still cause problems and can grow into healthy bones, so should be treated.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsChondroblastoma
Chorea
Chorea is an involuntary movement disorder associated with many different diseases and conditions. The disorder is characterized by irregular jerking movements that resemble dancing. It most commonly begins in the shoulders, neck, trunk and face.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyChorea
Cleft Lip
Cleft Lip is a birth abnormality in which the tissues forming the lip do not completely fuse. The degree of the cleft lip can vary greatly, from mild (notching of the lip) to severe (large opening from the lip up through the nose). Cleft lip may also be seen in conjunction with cleft palate.
Related Specialties:
Craniofacial and Cleft PalateCleft Lip
Cleft Palate
Cleft palate occurs when the 2 sides of the palate (roof of the mouth) do not join together during embryonic development, leaving an opening in the roof of the mouth. This creates a gap in the roof of the mouth that runs along its midline from behind the teeth to the nasal cavity. Many people with cleft palate are partially deaf and may have another birth defect. The opening in the palate permits communication between the nasal passages and the mouth. Surgery is needed to close the palate. Cleft palate is a common physical birth defect, although not as common as a cleft lip.
Related Specialties:
Craniofacial and Cleft PalateCleft Palate
Clubfoot
Clubfoot is a birth defect that causes 1 or both of a baby’s feet to turn inward, or to point upward. This occurs because the tendons that connect the leg muscles to the foot are short and tight causing the foot to twist and bear a rough resemblance to a golf club.
Related Specialties:
Center for ClubfootClubfoot
Coagulation Disorder
Coagulation disorders are problems with blood clotting. The issue can either be a hemorrhage, which is when the blood does not clot enough, or thrombosis, which is when there is too much clotting. When the blood clots too much, it causes blood clots and obstructs blood flow.
Related Specialties:
The Orthopaedic Hemophilia Treatment CenterCoagulation Disorder
Congenital Coxa Vara
Congenital coxa vara is a hip deformity that occurs when the angle between the neck and head (ball) of the femur (thigh bone) and the shaft of the femur is reduced. This causes shortening of the leg and a limp.
Congenital Coxa Vara
Congenital Limb Disorders
Congenital limb disorders are when part of, or all of, the upper or lower limb fails to develop normally before a baby is born.
Related Specialties:
Congenital Limb DisorderCongenital Limb Disorders
Congenital Muscular Torticollis and Torticollis
Congenital muscular torticollis, also called twisted neck, is a condition in which an infant is born holding their head tilted to one side. Torticollis is typically noticed when an infant is 6 to 8 weeks old and is more common in firstborn children.
Related Specialties:
ArthrogryposisCongenital Muscular Torticollis and Torticollis
Congenital Scoliosis
Congenital scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine caused by a vertebral defect present at birth.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterCongenital Scoliosis
Connective Tissue Disorders
The connective tissues of the skeleton consist of cartilage, bone, tendon, muscle and ligaments. These tissues come together to form the skeleton and allow it to keep its shape and strength so that it can do its job of providing protection, moving, and producing blood. When your child has a connective tissue disorder, the proteins or components that make up connective tissues can be abnormal for several different reasons. In some cases, it is because they become inflamed or irritated. In others, it is because there is a change in a gene that affects the protein.
Related Specialties:
Connective Tissue DisordersConnective Tissue Disorders
Cyst
Cysts are a closed sac of fluid, air, or other substances and can grow anywhere in the body.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsCyst
D
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a condition that causes instability in the hip socket, which causes it to become dislocated. The ligaments of the hip joint may also become stretched and loosen. If only one hip is affected it is known as unilateral hip dysplasia. If both hips are affected it is known as bilateral hip dysplasia.
Related Specialties:
Hip DisordersDevelopmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Diastrophic Dysplasia
Diastrophic dysplasia is a condition that affects this normal process of cartilage converting to bone. It results in a form of dwarfism that includes short stature, joint and hand deformities, and abnormal curving of the spine.
Related Specialties:
Skeletal Dysplasia & DwarfismDiastrophic Dysplasia
Diplegia
Diplegia is a condition that causes paralysis of corresponding parts on both sides of the body. Typically, it affects the legs more than the arms.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyDiplegia
Discoid Meniscus
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of knee cartilage that cushions the shin bone from the knee bone. A discoid meniscus occurs when the meniscus is thicker than normal, often oval or disc-shaped. When this happens, the meniscus is more prone to injury.
Discoid Meniscus
Disproportionate Dwarfism
Disproportionate dwarfism is where a person has body parts that are not proportionate to each other—they can be several different sizes. In most cases, the trunk is average-sized and the limbs are short.
Related Specialties:
Skeletal Dysplasia & DwarfismDisproportionate Dwarfism
Dystonia
Dystonia is a condition that causes involuntary, sustained or intermittent muscle contractions. Most often these are twisting and repetitive movements, abnormal postures or both.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyDystonia
E
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
This disorder is a group of disorders that results from abnormal collagen—a major protein that forms connective tissues, such as tendon, ligaments, muscles, and bone. It can cause symptoms such as extremely loose joints, weak muscle tone, scoliosis (a curve in the spine), or very fragile skin that easily tears or bruises, because collagen is also important to the strength of skin.
Related Specialties:
Connective Tissue DisordersEhlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
Elbow Fractures
Elbow fractures are breaks in the bones within the elbow. There are multiple types of fractures that can occur in the elbow depending on the location of the break.
Elbow Fractures
Enchondroma
Enchondroma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that begins in the cartilage.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsEnchondroma
Ewing Sarcoma
Ewing sarcoma is a cancer that usually begins in the ribs, shoulder blades, pelvic (hip) bones or the long bones in the arms or upper legs.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsEwing Sarcoma
F
Femoroacetabular Impingement
Femoroacetabular impingement is a condition in which extra bone grows along one or both of the bones that form the hip joint. This results in the bones having an irregular shape. This can cause friction as the bones rub together and cause pain.
Related Specialties:
Hip DisordersFemoroacetabular Impingement
Flexible Flatfeet
Flexible flatfeet is a common condition in children where the arches of the foot are visible while sitting, but disappear upon standing. The arch reappears when a child stands on their toes or the toes are hyperextended. Most children grow out of this mild deformity by the age of 7.
Related Specialties:
Orthopaedic Rehabilitation CenterFlexible Flatfeet
Fracture
A fracture is a broken bone. When a child experiences a fracture, it’s different than when an adult breaks the same bone. In pediatric fractures, areas of cartilage called “growth plates” can be damaged. If the fracture isn’t properly treated, damage to the growth plates can cause the bones to grow unevenly.
Fracture
G
Giant Cell Tumor
A giant cell tumor is a rare, aggressive non-cancerous tumor, usually developing near a joint at the end of the bone.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsGiant Cell Tumor
Giant Cell Tumors
A giant cell tumor is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that forms when small cells merge into larger ones. It usually occurs in the ends of long bones like the femur (thigh), tibia (shin bone), and distal radius (forearm), but sometimes they develop in the lower end of the spinal cord. Although these tumors are non-cancerous, they can cause damage to healthy tissue and have the potential to cause fractures.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsGiant Cell Tumors
Growing Rods (MAGEC)
MAGnetic Expansion Control (MAGEC) is a surgical treatment for early-onset or idiopathic scoliosis. During the procedure, magnetic rods are implanted. After, an external remote control is used to adjust the rods to help minimize the progression of scoliosis and minimize the need for repeat surgeries.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterGrowing Rods (MAGEC)
Gymnast Wrist
Gymnast wrist is a repetitive-stress injury that causes pain and inflammation on the thumb side of the wrist. It usually develops when a gymnast increases training intensity or moves to a higher competitive level.
Related Specialties:
Center for Sports MedicineGymnast Wrist
H
Hand Trauma
Hand trauma is an injury to the tendons, ligaments, muscles, bones or joints that make up a hand and wrist that could result from a single event (such as a fall) or develop over time from overuse or repeated injuries that weaken the parts of the hand.
Related Specialties:
Hand and Microsurgery CenterHand Trauma
Hemiplegia
Hemiplegia is a condition that causes partial paralysis or muscle weakness on one side of the body.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyHemiplegia
Hemophilia
Hemophilia is a condition that affects the body’s ability to clot blood. Because of this, hemophilia can cause severe bleeding, even from a slight injury.
Related Specialties:
The Orthopaedic Hemophilia Treatment CenterHemophilia
Hip Disorders
Hip disorders are conditions that affect the hip joint. The hip joint is where the thigh bone meets the pelvis, and is the largest “ball-and-socket” joint in the body.
Related Specialties:
Hip DisordersHip Disorders
Hip Fracture
A hip fracture is a break in the upper quarter of the femur (thigh) bone or in the pelvis.
Related Specialties:
Ahmanson Foundation Fracture CenterHip Fracture
Hip Impingement
Hip impingement is a condition in which there is abnormal, wearing contact between the ball and socket of the hip joint, resulting in increased friction during hip movements that can cause damage to the joint.
Related Specialties:
Hip DisordersHip Impingement
Hypertonia
Hypotonia is an unusually high level of muscle tone.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyHypertonia
Hypochondroplasia
Hypochondroplasia is a form of short-limbed dwarfism.
Related Specialties:
Skeletal Dysplasia & DwarfismHypochondroplasia
Hypotonia
Hypotonia is an unusually low level of muscle tone.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyHypotonia
I
Idiopathic Scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis means there is no definite cause of the condition. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis, typically runs in families, affects girls 8 times more often than boys, and is often detected just before or during a child’s adolescence.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterIdiopathic Scoliosis
Idiopathic/Isolated Clubfoot
Idiopathic or isolated clubfoot is a birth defect that affects the foot, causing 1 or both feet to turn inward, or to point upward. It is called “idiopathic” or “isolated” clubfoot when a child does not have any other medical problems besides the clubfoot.
Related Specialties:
Center for ClubfootIdiopathic/Isolated Clubfoot
Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome
The iliotibial band (IT band) is a tendon that runs down the length of the outer thigh, from the top of the pelvis to the shin bone. Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome is an overuse injury of this tendon.
Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome
Interbody Spinal Fusion
Interbody spinal fusion is a surgical procedure used to treat scoliosis that involves removing a spinal disk. The goal of all spinal fusion surgeries is to fuse or “weld” together 2 or more of the spinal vertebrae so that they heal into a single, solid bone.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterInterbody Spinal Fusion
Involuntary Movements
Dyskinesia is a disorder that occurs in the developing brain and causes involuntary body movements. It can include the whole body, or just one part, like the arm or leg. A child with dyskinesia might fidget, writhe or sway, wriggle or bob their head.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyInvoluntary Movements
J
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints. It happens to children and teens when the immune system does not work properly and attacks healthy joints. JIA is also sometimes called juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA).
Related Specialties:
Orthopaedic Rehabilitation CenterJuvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
K
Knock Knees
Knock knees is an angular deformity of the legs in which the knees touch each other but the ankles are spread apart. This is also known as “genu valgum.”
Knock Knees
L
Leg Length Discrepancy
Leg length discrepancy is when a child has one leg that is shorter than the other leg. This difference can range from very small and unnoticeable to several inches. Mild leg length discrepancy is common and does not require any treatment. Larger differences may require treatment to help improve quality of life.
Leg Length Discrepancy
Leg Lengthening
Leg lengthening is a surgery which can lengthen bones. If the leg is also deformed, it can be straightened at the same time. Most commonly, this procedure is used to correct large limb length discrepancies. Sometimes, this process needs to be done several times to ensure the legs are the same length.
Leg Lengthening
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a hip disorder found in children that disrupts blood flow to the head of the femur (thighbone). Due to the lack of blood, the bone dies and stops growing.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Ligament Injuries
Ligaments are pieces of fibrous tissue that connect one bone to another. Ligament injuries include sprains (when the ligament is stretched or partially torn) and complete tears or ruptures.
Related Specialties:
Center for Sports MedicineLigament Injuries
Limb Salvage
Until recently, amputation was often the only option for most cancerous bone and soft tissue tumors. Today, using the latest specialized surgical techniques and recent advances from ongoing research, the vast majority of limbs can be salvaged with a procedure called limb salvage surgery, and do not need to be amputated.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsLimb Salvage
Little League Elbow
Little League elbow is an overuse injury that occurs in young athletes, often pitchers, who play baseball and softball. It affects the inner side of the elbow.
Related Specialties:
Center for Sports MedicineLittle League Elbow
Little League Shoulder
Little League shoulder is an overuse injury caused by stress to the arm bone (humerus) nearest to the shoulder. This stress often happens to young athletes who play baseball or softball and causes widening of the growth plate, resulting in swelling and pain at the shoulder.
Related Specialties:
Center for Sports MedicineLittle League Shoulder
Longitudinal Deficiency
Longitudinal deficiency is when a specific part of a limb—such as a bone in the arm or leg—is partially or completely missing.
Related Specialties:
Congenital Limb DisorderLongitudinal Deficiency
Lumbar Spine Surgery
Lumbar spine surgery is a type of surgery used to treat compressed nerves in the lower (lumbar) spine. It is often used to treat scoliosis.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterLumbar Spine Surgery
M
Marfan Syndrome
Marfan syndrome is an inherited genetic disorder that causes weakening of connective tissue in the body.
Related Specialties:
Connective Tissue DisordersMarfan Syndrome
Medial Epicondylitis
Medial epicondylitis is a type of tendonitis that affects the inside of the elbow. It’s an overuse injury that develops where tendons in the forearm muscle connect to the bony part on the inside of the elbow. Sometimes, it is referred to as golfer’s elbow.
Related Specialties:
Center for Sports MedicineMedial Epicondylitis
Meniscal Tear
A meniscal tear is a full or partial rip in the wedge-shaped cartilage located in the knee.
Meniscal Tear
Metatarsus Adductus (also called Metatarsus Varus)
This is a common congenital (present at birth) foot deformity that causes the front half of the foot to turn inward.
Related Specialties:
Congenital Limb DisorderMetatarsus Adductus (also called Metatarsus Varus)
Monoplegia
Monoplegia is a type of paralysis that occurs in one limb or region of the body. It is almost always caused by cerebral palsy. It can cause weakness, pain and numbness in the affected area.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyMonoplegia
Monostotic Fibrous Dysplasia
Monostotic fibrous dysplasia is excessive growth of hard, fibrous tissue that replaces normal bone tissue in a single bone. It is sometimes associated with certain endocrine disorders.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsMonostotic Fibrous Dysplasia
Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is one of several conditions that affect muscles and nerves, causing muscle weakness and movement difficulties. All are caused by a genetic defect.
Related Specialties:
Orthopaedic Rehabilitation CenterMuscular Dystrophy
N
Neurofibromatosis (NF)
Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic disorder of the nervous system and causes tumors to grow on nerves.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsNeurofibromatosis (NF)
Non-Isolated Clubfoot
Clubfoot is a birth defect that causes 1 or both of a baby’s feet to turn inward, or to point upward. When a child’s clubfoot is associated with a neuromuscular condition, such as arthrogryposis, it is known as non-isolated clubfoot.
Related Specialties:
Center for ClubfootNon-Isolated Clubfoot
Non-Ossifying Fibroma (NOF)
A non-ossifying fibroma (NOF) is one of the most common bone tumors found in children. They are non-cancerous and do not spread to other areas of the body.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsNon-Ossifying Fibroma (NOF)
O
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is an area of medicine that helps patients (and sometimes their parents) develop, recover, or maintain activities of daily living (ADL), such as bathing, self-feeding, positive social skills, etc.
Related Specialties:
Orthopaedic Rehabilitation CenterOccupational Therapy
Orthopedic Rehabilitation
Orthopedic rehabilitation is a therapeutic approach to recovery. The goal is to correct musculoskeletal limitations and alleviate pain from trauma, illness or surgery.
Related Specialties:
Orthopaedic Rehabilitation CenterOrthopedic Rehabilitation
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse condition or injury of the knee that causes pain and swelling below the knee.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a joint condition that develops when a small portion of bone cracks, loosens and separates from the tissues that surround it. It is caused by a lack of blood supply to the area.
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Osteochondroma
Solitary osteochondromas are the most common type of non-cancerous (benign) bone tumor. They develop when part of the growth plate forms an outgrowth on the surface of a bone. Osteochondromas are found at the ends of any long bone, as well as along the pelvic and shoulder bones. They stop growing when a child’s bones mature.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsOsteochondroma
Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a disorder that affects the body’s ability to make bones. If a child has severe OI, they have weak, brittle bones that break easily. However, many children with OI have a milder form and are able to go through life with only a few fractures.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Osteoid Osteoma
Osteoid osteoma is a small non-cancerous tumor that typically develops on the femur (thigh) or tibia (shin bone). It does not spread, but causes a bone to grow around it. It also creates an osteoid bone, which is abnormal bone material.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsOsteoid Osteoma
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is a cancer that usually develops in areas where bones grow rapidly, like at the end of long bones in the humerus (upper arm), femur (thigh), and tibia (shin) or in flat bones such as the pelvis (hip) and skull. It is the most common type of cancer in children and teens.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsOsteosarcoma
P
Patella Dislocation
The patella is the kneecap. When the kneecap slides out of position, it is called patella dislocation.
Patella Dislocation
Patellar Tendonitis
Patellar tendonitis is a knee injury characterized by inflammation of the patellar tendon and overuse.
Patellar Tendonitis
Patellofemoral Syndrome
Patellofemoral syndrome is pain at the front of the knee. It is commonly found in athletes who put heavy stress on their knees, and is commonly known as runner’s knee.
Patellofemoral Syndrome
Pavlik Harness
The Pavlik harness is a specialized soft brace used to make sure a baby’s hips are aligned in the joint. It’s a type of harness used to treat developmental dysplasia of the hip.
Pavlik Harness
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an area of medicine that uses exercises and equipment to help patients recover from injuries and regain range of motion in their joints.
Related Specialties:
Orthopaedic Rehabilitation CenterPhysical Therapy
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an overuse condition caused by inflammation of the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes.
Plantar Fasciitis
Polydactyly
A condition in which a child has more than five fingers or toes on 1, or on each, hand or foot.
Related Specialties:
Congenital Limb DisorderPolydactyly
Polyostotic Fibrous Dysplasia
Polyostotic fibrous dysplasia is excessive growth of hard, fibrous tissue that replaces normal bone tissue in more than 1 bone. It is sometimes associated with certain endocrine disorders.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsPolyostotic Fibrous Dysplasia
Ponseti Method
The Ponseti method is 3-stage treatment for clubfoot. It involves stretching, casting and bracing to help position the foot so a child can stand and walk normally.
Related Specialties:
Center for ClubfootPonseti Method
Posterior Spinal Fusion
Posterior spinal fusion is a surgical procedure performed from the back of the body to treat scoliosis. The goal of all spinal fusion surgeries is to fuse or “weld” together 2 or more of the spinal vertebrae so that they heal into a single, solid bone.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterPosterior Spinal Fusion
Proportionate Dwarfism
Proportionate dwarfism is a condition where the body parts are all proportionate, just shorter.
Related Specialties:
Skeletal Dysplasia & DwarfismProportionate Dwarfism
Pseudoachondroplasia
Pseudoachondroplasia is an inherited bone growth disorder.
Related Specialties:
Skeletal Dysplasia & DwarfismPseudoachondroplasia
Q
Quadriplegia
Quadriplegia is a partial or complete paralysis that occurs from at least the shoulders downward. This means none of the 4 limbs have sensation or can be controlled.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyQuadriplegia
R
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic progressive disease causing inflammation in the joints and resulting in deformity and immobility, especially in the fingers, wrists, feet, and ankles.
Related Specialties:
Connective Tissue DisordersRheumatoid Arthritis
Rigidity
A condition where the muscles are always stiff and do not relax. The severity can range from mild, to muscles being so stiff and rigid that a child is unable to walk.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyRigidity
Rocker Bottom Foot (Vertical Talus)
Congenital vertical talus (CVT), commonly called rocker bottom foot, is a rare deformity that causes the foot to flex abnormally.
Related Specialties:
Congenital Limb DisorderRocker Bottom Foot (Vertical Talus)
S
Scheuermann’s Kyphosis
Scheuermann’s kyphosis is a condition that makes the upper back rounded so it appears hunched over.
Scheuermann’s Kyphosis
Scleroderma
Scleroderma is a chronic hardening and contraction of the skin and connective tissue, either locally or throughout the body.
Related Specialties:
Connective Tissue DisordersScleroderma
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. This curve can happen on either side of the spine and in different places within the spine, too. With treatment such as bracing and follow-up with the doctor, most kids who have scoliosis have normal and active lives.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterScoliosis
Scoliosis and Kyphosis Bracing
Bracing is often used with children who have scoliosis or kyphosis who have curves that measure between 25 and 40 degrees during their growth phase. It helps correct the spinal curve and prevents it from getting worse.
Scoliosis and Kyphosis Bracing
Scoliosis Surgery
Scoliosis surgery is an operation for scoliosis that involves a spinal fusion to realign and fuse together the curved vertebrae, allowing the bones to heal into a single, solid bone.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterScoliosis Surgery
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is when the growth plate of the heel bone becomes irritated and inflamed.
Sever’s Disease
Shoulder Dislocation
Shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder blade socket.
Shoulder Dislocation
Sickle Cell Disease and Anemia
Sickle cell disease is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by sickle-shaped red blood cells that clump easily, causing severe pain. Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disease that causes abnormality in red cells. This results in a very severe form of anemia.
Related Specialties:
The Orthopaedic Hemophilia Treatment CenterSickle Cell Disease and Anemia
Skeletal Dysplasia / Dwarfism
Skeletal dysplasia is not just one disorder—it’s a group of more than 300 disorders. It occurs when a child’s bones don’t develop the way they’re supposed to, usually causing short stature. One type of short stature is called dwarfism. It’s a condition where a child’s bones can’t grow to an average length. This results in the bones being short and sometimes crooked. A patient is considered to have dwarfism when their adult height is 4 feet 10 inches or less.
Related Specialties:
Skeletal Dysplasia & DwarfismSkeletal Dysplasia / Dwarfism
Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE)
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a hip problem that begins when part of the growing end (the epiphysis) of the thighbone (femur) slips off from the top of the thighbone. SCFE may develop in 1 leg or both. Usually it is a gradual, slow process, but may be sudden if it is caused by a trauma, such as a fall.
Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE)
Snapping Hip
Snapping hip is a condition that is characterized by a snapping sensation within the hip while performing activities such as walking or swinging the leg.
Snapping Hip
Soft Tissue Tumors
Soft tissue tumors are cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign) growths that develop in the soft tissues of the body, such as the muscles, ligaments or nerves.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsSoft Tissue Tumors
Spasticity
A condition where muscles involuntarily contract and relax. It can cause exaggerated, jerky movements and mostly affects the arms and legs, but can impact other parts of the body, too. It often occurs in children with cerebral palsy.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsySpasticity
Spica Cast
There are different kinds of spica casts, but all are used to prevent the hip or leg from moving after an injury or surgery. Most start from just below the armpits and go down to the ankles on one or both legs. A child is not able to walk in this cast. However, the short-term challenges will pay off. By preventing movement, a spica cast allows the bones to heal properly.
Spica Cast
Spinal Fusion (Anterior, Posterior, Interbody)
Spinal fusion is surgery to permanently connect two or more vertebrae in the spine, eliminating motion between them. This surgery is often used for children with scoliosis.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterSpinal Fusion (Anterior, Posterior, Interbody)
Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Congenita (SEDc)
SEDc is a rare genetic disorder that results in short stature and skeletal abnormalities that primarily affect the spine and long bones of the arms and legs. SEDc is a form of dwarfism.
Related Specialties:
Skeletal Dysplasia & DwarfismSpondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Congenita (SEDc)
Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolysis is when there is a stress fracture of 1 or more spinal vertebrae. Spondylolisthesis is when a spinal vertebrae slips, usually near the bottom of the spine. Sometimes, spondylolysis happens first, then spondylolisthesis occurs afterwards.
Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis
Sports Medicine
Sports medicine is the area of medicine that diagnoses, treats and prevents injuries related to physical fitness or exercise.
Related Specialties:
Center for Sports MedicineSports Medicine
Supracondylar Fracture
Supracondylar fracture is a break in the humerus (upper arm bone) at its thinnest point just above the elbow. It is the most common upper arm injury in children.
Related Specialties:
Ahmanson Foundation Fracture CenterSupracondylar Fracture
Symbrachydactyly
Symbrachydactyly is a condition where some of a child’s fingers are short or missing.
Related Specialties:
Congenital Limb DisorderSymbrachydactyly
Syndactyly
A condition of having some or all of the fingers or toes wholly or partly united, appearing webbed.
Related Specialties:
Congenital Limb DisorderSyndactyly
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or Lupus)
Lupus is a disease in which tissue in every organ of the body—such as the brain, lungs, blood, and skin—becomes inflamed.
Related Specialties:
Connective Tissue DisordersSystemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or Lupus)
T
Telemedicine
Telemedicine is a privacy protected compliant collaborative technology for delivering personalized patient care through videoconferencing, still and video images, e-health and telephone consultations.
Telemedicine
Toe Deformities
Toe deformities occur when the toe bones are misaligned. If left untreated, some toe deformities can negatively impact your child’s quality of life and cause problems with other weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips.
Toe Deformities
Toe Walking
Children typically learn to walk between 9 and 18 months of age. During this time, they try different foot positions, including walking on their tiptoes. But by age 2, most children walk normally, with feet flat on the ground. If they continue walking on their toes after age 2, the condition is called toe walking and they should see an orthopedic specialist.
Related Specialties:
Orthopaedic Rehabilitation CenterToe Walking
Total Body Involvement Cerebral Palsy
Total Body Involvement is a type of cerebral palsy that describes a person who, in addition to the involvement of four limbs, has impairments in speech, vision or cognitive function.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyTotal Body Involvement Cerebral Palsy
Transverse Deficiency
A transverse deficiency is when the limb is completely missing after a certain point.
Related Specialties:
Congenital Limb DisorderTransverse Deficiency
Triplegia
A condition where three limbs are paralyzed.
Related Specialties:
The Center for Cerebral PalsyTriplegia
Turner Syndrome
Turner syndrome is a chromosomal disorder in which a female is born with only one X chromosome. This can cause issues such as short stature, delayed puberty and heart defects, among others.
Related Specialties:
Skeletal Dysplasia & DwarfismTurner Syndrome
U
Unicameral Bone Cyst (UBC)
A unicameral bone cyst (UBC) is a cavity in a bone that’s filled with fluid instead of with bone. UBC is a common, non-cancerous tumor found in children that occurs in 1 location of 1 bone.
Related Specialties:
Bone and Soft Tissue TumorsUnicameral Bone Cyst (UBC)
V
Vertical Expandable Prosthetic Titanium Rib Procedure (VEPTR)
Vertical expandable prosthetic titanium ribs (VEPTR) is used for the treatment of childhood deformities of the thorax.
Related Specialties:
Pediatric Scoliosis CenterVertical Expandable Prosthetic Titanium Rib Procedure (VEPTR)
W
Wrist Fractures
Wrist fractures are breaks that occur in the bones that make up the wrist. The wrist is made up of 8 small bones called carpal bones that are connected to the two forearm bones, the radius and the ulna.