Bone and Joint infections are generally termed as Musculoskeletal disorders. Musculoskeletal disorders are any disease that affects the joints, ligaments, nerves, muscles, and bones. These are commonly caused due to the infection, injury, or it can be inherited and develop as a part of a child’s growth. At times they occur for no known reason at all.
A child’s bones grow continually and thus reshape them after every few years. The old bone tissue is gradually replaced by new bone tissue making the difference. Most of the disorders affecting the bones of a child occur in a growing child musculoskeletal system. These disorders may get worse or better as the child grows.
Musculoskeletal conditions in children and teenagers are becoming more common now. They require conscious observation and understanding to avoid and treat their symptoms. This World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day (October 19th) let us have awareness about the impact of musculoskeletal conditions in children.
Common Bone and Joint Infections observed in children
Here is the list of common bone and joint infections seen in children:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Post-Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis (PSRA)
- Septic Arthritis (Joint Infection)
- Bone fractures
- Muscular dystrophy
- Developmental dysplasia of the hip
- Tendinitis
- Osteoporosis (bone infection)
Symptoms to recognise Musculoskeletal disorders
As children cannot communicate with the issues directly, it is important for the parents to catch up their signs. The following are the common symptoms a child tend to show while going through musculoskeletal disorders.
- Fever and Warmth
- Redness near the infected area
- Pains, Swellings
- Infants may show irritable and lethargic behaviour
- Refuse to eat, or vomit
- Limited movement of the infected area
Treatment Procedures available for Bone and Joint Infections in Children
A timely diagnosis plays a crucial role in the better treatment process for children. If ignored or not recognised for long, these infections tend to evolve into chronic disorders. The following mentioned procedures have proven to show good results for the immediate diagnosis.
- Antibiotics to control the infection and spread to other parts of the body.
- Medication to help manage pain and swelling of the infected area without further damage
- In case of severe damage, surgery can help clean out the affected areas in and around the affected bones.
It is estimated that nearly 48% of adults and 10% of children have a musculoskeletal condition. However, the myth that children do not contract musculoskeletal disorders has to be removed. Diagnosing and treating them timely will help you save them from severe health conditions in future.
*Information shared here is for general purpose. Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.
