6 Orthopaedic Conditions That Are More Likely to Affect Teenagers

By Your Health Magazine

Teenagers are more susceptible to orthopaedic conditions for many reasons, including their active lifestyle, which puts their musculoskeletal system at risk of various types of injuries. The physical health problems they encounter at this stage of life can affect their body development if not treated. Orthopaedic conditions can affect a teenager’s mobility, growth, and overall well-being, depending on the specific anatomic region affected.

The most common anatomic regions affected in teenagers include the spine, ankle, and knee, which often exhibit orthopaedic problems like slipped capital femoral epiphysis and Osgood-Schlatter disease. Below, we’ll explore six common orthopaedic conditions that are likely to affect teenagers and how to manage them.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition that affects the spine, leaving the affected person with an abnormal spinal curvature. A normal spine should appear straight when viewed from the rear, but if the spine appears curved, sideways, lateral, or rotated, then it’s affected by scoliosis. The affected child or teenager may appear to be leaning towards a side when observed from a distance. In a majority of scoliosis cases, the cause of the deformity is usually unknown, and the condition is commonly referred to as Idiopathic Scoliosis.

There are two other types of scoliosis (congenital and neuromuscular scoliosis), but these are only common in infants and toddlers. Teens or adolescents mainly suffer from idiopathic scoliosis, whose cause is still unknown. The main symptoms of scoliosis include pain, distortion of posture, discomfort, and breathing problems.

Successful treatment and management of the scoliosis condition begins with early diagnosis through regular screenings. Some successful treatment and management practices include keen observation, physical therapy, bracing, or, in some cases, surgery. Patients might have to undergo a multidisciplinary treatment approach involving visiting a physical therapist, orthopaedic specialist, and other specialized health professionals to receive an effective cure.

During treatment, a patient can always improve their recovery chances by using the best mattress for scoliosis support. Sleeping on a recommended mattress can improve comfort during treatment and speed up the healing process.

Osgood-Schlatter (Knee Pain)

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a type of knee pain commonly diagnosed in teens whose bones are still developing. It results from the overuse of the knee in a period when the child’s bones aren’t yet strong enough for rigorous activities. Teens who play contact and rigorous sports like basketball, rugby, or soccer are more likely to develop Osgood-Schlatter disease.

The most common symptom of the disease is a painful inflammation that occurs on top of the knee area where the kneecap tendon attaches to the shin. Muscle growth at this age can be irregular, with some muscles growing rapidly and others taking more time to grow. This disparity in growth can cause inflammation and irritation in the specific region when the children engage in rigorous exercises that strain the knee area.

The most effective treatment prescription for Osgood-Schlatter is conservative therapy, which includes taking enough rest from rigorous exercises and using compression bandages and ice over the affected area. Affected children may also sign up for physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the affected muscles.

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

Teens between the ages of 10 and 15 years who engage in vigorous activities are more likely to suffer from slipped capital femoral epiphysis than their older counterparts. This condition primarily initiates the damage to the growth plate, causing the femoral head to slip from its natural position. Patients suffer from pain around the knee, groin area, and hip, which interferes with their normal walking, causing them to limp.

The best treatment for slipped capital femoral epiphysis is surgery. After surgery, patients can schedule post-surgical therapy to build their muscle strength and help with the full realignment of the femoral head back to its natural position.

Teenage Sprains and Strains

Teenagers can’t help but be active and engaged in different life activities. Whether it’s sports or social events, teens will always find ways to use their energy. In the midst of these activities, they can throw caution to the wind and end up with injuries like strains or sprains. These injuries are common in adolescent kids and are always a result of trauma, which involves the ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

A sprain is sustained when an affected ligament is twisted or wrenched, and it usually affects ankles, wrists, and knees. On the other hand, a strain is an injury sustained to a muscle or tendon that usually results from overuse, force, or stretching.

Once diagnosed, sprain and strain treatment may involve painkiller medicines, cold compression, and enough rest. The affected leg or arm can be kept at a raised position while bandaged to minimize any further harm to the injury. Some touch of physical therapy, such as controlled stretching, can also help ease the symptoms.

Pes Planus or Flat Foot

When a child is born, they come with flattened foot arches, which makes it possible for their entire sole to touch the floor when standing. However, as a child grows, the foot is expected to develop a normal arch. In some children, the arches may sometimes not develop properly, causing them to suffer the inconveniences of a flat foot into their teenage years. Affected children may experience pain, discomfort, and strain when handling tasks that require extended walking or standing.

Once diagnosed, a few treatment options may be prescribed depending on the severity of the condition. The most common ones include physical therapy, orthotic devices, and surgery in severe cases. Your doctor is best placed to prescribe the right treatment path for your child or relative.

Fractures

Children (especially teenagers) commonly suffer fractures or broken bones due to sport-related accidents, falls, or trauma. Trauma in children may not be the same as that in adults because a child’s bones are still developing. A simple fall or a sport-related accident can cause a significant fracture in a child’s arm or leg, requiring urgent medical attention.

Depending on the severity and type of injury, the fracture can be treated by splinting, casting, or through relevant surgeries. For effective recovery, the patient might have to minimize movement, get pain management care, and maintain an active follow-up with the physiotherapist.

Teenagers need to maintain their active lifestyle for their overall well-being. If they sustain orthopaedic injuries during their daily activities, it’s best to get them relevant help as soon as possible with the help of a reliable family doctor. Whether it’s fractures or scoliosis, early diagnosis and treatment can always ensure the child recovers quickly and returns to their normal daily activities.