Common Pediatric Orthopedic Conditions and Injuries

Children are naturally active and energetic, and injuries are common as they grow. At South Island Orthopedics, we specialize in treating pediatric orthopedic conditions for children and teens across Long Island, NY, including Nassau County and Suffolk County.

Teen Black girl holds her knee and looks concerned after falling off her skateboard in a park.

Common Pediatric Injuries

Pediatric injuries are often caused by sports, but they can also result from falls, car accidents, or other activities. Some of the most common pediatric injuries include:

Sprains

A sprain occurs when a ligament is overstretched or torn. Ankle, knee, wrist, and finger sprains are common in children, especially in older kids and teens involved in sports. Younger children are less likely to have sprains because their growth plates are more vulnerable and prone to fractures instead.

Fractures (Broken Bones)

Fractures are frequent in children, especially from falls or collisions. Unlike adults, children tend to experience greenstick fractures because their bones are more flexible. Growth plates in children are also vulnerable to fractures, accounting for approximately 30% of pediatric fractures, typically in the wrist, fingers, and lower leg.

Growth Plate Injuries

Growth plates are cartilage areas at the ends of bones that allow for growth. Since they are weaker than surrounding bone, they are prone to fractures. These fractures need specialized care to avoid complications, as improper healing could affect future bone growth.

Dislocations

A dislocation happens when two bones in a joint separate. While dislocations are rare in young children, they can occur in teens, particularly in contact sports. Shoulder, elbow, and finger dislocations are common. These injuries can stretch or tear the ligaments surrounding the joint.

Knee Injuries

Knee injuries are common in active children involved in sports like gymnastics, basketball, and soccer. Injuries can range from sprains and tendonitis to fractures and cartilage damage. Since the knee is a large joint supported by ligaments and tendons, injuries can affect a child’s ability to move properly.

Recognizing the Signs You Need Orthopedic Care

Not all pediatric injuries require immediate treatment, but some should be evaluated by a specialist to prevent complications. Here are signs that your child should see an orthopedic specialist:

  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a few hours
  • Pain while using or putting weight on the injured area
  • Limping or difficulty walking
  • Swelling, warmth, or redness at the injury site
  • Visible deformity or bone protrusion (requires emergency care)
  • Refusing to use the affected arm or leg
  • Bruising around the injury

Children heal faster than adults, but if an injury isn’t treated properly, it could lead to long-term problems. Growth plate fractures, for example, need careful attention to avoid issues with future bone growth.

Young blonde girl smiles while a pediatric orthopedic doctor treats her arm with a colorful sling.

Care at South Island Orthopedics

At South Island Orthopedics, we offer comprehensive care for pediatric injuries. Here’s why families trust us:

Pediatric Care

Our orthopedic specialists are skilled in treating injuries specific to children and teens, understanding how their bones and joints develop.

Personalized Treatment Plans

We create treatment plans tailored to your child’s specific injury, ensuring proper healing while considering their unique growth stage.

Convenient Access to Care

With urgent care and same-day appointments, we make it easy for families to get timely treatment when they need it most.

Family-Focused Approach

We involve parents in every step of the treatment process, prioritizing clear communication to support optimal recovery outcomes for your child.

Return To Play

We work closely with athletic trainers and physical therapists to safely return young athletes back to sports after an injury.

Asian toddler smiles up at her father while holding his hand on a walk.

Contact South Island Orthopedics

If your child needs orthopedic care or has experienced an injury, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with one of our pediatric specialists today.

📍 Cedarhurst Office: 516-295-0111

📍 Rockville Centre Office: 516-665-9200

Click here to request an appointment.