Condition : Musculoskeletal problems in children

Condition Musculoskeletal problems in children

What are musculoskeletal problems in children?

A musculoskeletal problem is an issue affecting muscles, ligaments, tendons and/or bones.

Children are more vulnerable to some musculoskeletal problems because they are still growing, and there are conditions that only develop in the womb or during childhood.

Congenital musculoskeletal problems

A congenital condition is one you are born with.

Many congenital musculoskeletal problems, like hypermobility, flat feet, in-toeing, and knock knees, are likely to resolve over time on their own, but in other instances, support may be needed to correct or manage the problem.

Examples of congenital musculoskeletal problems that need treatment or management include:

clubfoot – a birth defect where one or both feet are curved into an unusual position
craniosynostosis – where the skull fuses too early and doesn’t grow properly
hip dysplasia (DDH) – unstable hip joints, making dislocation more likely
restricted growth (dwarfism)

Childhood musculoskeletal problems

Children are more likely to suffer from certain injuries because they are still developing, and there are some musculoskeletal conditions that usually start in childhood.

‘Growing pains’ is a common problem caused by the muscles and bones developing at different rates. It’s harmless and usually goes away on its own.

Examples of serious childhood musculoskeletal problems include:

ankylosing spondylitis (AS) – inflammation of the spine and other areas of the body
juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) – pain and inflammation in one or more joints for at least 6 weeks
rickets – weak and soft bones caused by a lack of vitamin D or calcium (often causing bowed legs)
scoliosis – an irregular curve in the spine (can also be congenital)

What causes musculoskeletal problems in children?

Congenital conditions can be caused by the genes passed on from your parents, a by an infection or injury before, during, or soon after birth. Sometimes, there might not be an obvious reason for a congenital condition.

Conditions that develop during childhood can also be due to genes, but sometimes there might

Compared to the average adult, children are naturally more likely to suffer injuries like fractures and sprains because:

their bones are less dense, and are therefore weaker, compared to the average adults’
they haven’t yet learned about hazards and how to manage them (for example, slippery surfaces, or situations where fingers might get trapped)
their proprioception (sense of their body’s position and movement) is still developing
they participate in activities that put them at risk of falling, such as using playground equipment and playing chasing games

Poor posture, repetitive strain, and sedentary behaviour (sitting for long periods) are common causes of pain in older children. These are issues that can usually be resolved through exercise and lifestyle changes.

In some cases, however, pain that isn’t improving may be caused by a problem that needs to be addressed with medical advice or treatment, such as physiotherapy or corrective surgery

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