Pediatric & Congenital Orthopedics

What is paediatric orthopaedics?

Paediatric orthopaedics diagnoses and treats children's bone, joint and muscle disorders — from birth to the end of growth. The key feature of this age is growing bone, which is both vulnerable and highly able to remodel; that is why many problems, found in time, are treated without surgery. As Dr. Jalil Emad, I understand a parent's worry and stand gently beside you and your child.

Why do these problems happen? (in plain terms)

Some disorders are 'congenital' (present at birth, such as hip dysplasia or clubfoot) and some appear during 'growth'. The soft growth plates at the ends of a child's bones are sites of rapid growth and also sensitive points; so uneven load, genetics or the position in the womb can change a bone's alignment. Because the bone is still being built, it can often be gently guided back onto the right path.

Signs parents notice

• Asymmetric thigh creases or one shorter leg
• Delayed walking or persistent limping
• Toe-walking or in-/out-turning feet
• A noticeable curve of a limb or the spine
• Pain or restricted movement

Treatment options — from monitoring to surgery

My priority is always the least invasive effective route, with full respect for the growth plates.

Step 1 — Monitoring and regular review

• What it is: In mild problems, periodic review of growth and alignment without intervention.
• How it helps: Many mild cases correct themselves as the child grows; monitoring avoids unnecessary treatment.
• Who it suits: Mild disorders or cases expected to self-correct.
• What to expect: Regular visits and reassurance; treatment started at exactly the right time.

Step 2 — Staged casting, splints and braces

• What it is: Gradually guiding the bone or joint with successive casts or a brace (such as the standard methods for clubfoot or hip dysplasia).
• How it helps: Corrects alignment without surgery, using the power of growth.
• Who it suits: Many congenital disorders when found early.
• What to expect: Requires patience and regular follow-up; results are often very good.

Step 3 — Physiotherapy and exercise

• What it is: Targeted exercises for strength, flexibility and correcting movement patterns.
• How it helps: Improves function and complements casting/bracing or the post-surgery stage.
• Who it suits: Musculoskeletal disorders and rehabilitation.
• What to expect: Gradual improvement with the family's support.

Step 4 — Corrective surgery

• What it is: When needed, surgical correction with careful planning and full respect for the growth plates.
• How it helps: When other methods are not enough, it corrects alignment and function.
• Who it suits: Severe disorders or those that have not responded to non-surgical care.
• What to expect: Surgery timing is set according to the child's age and growth.

Summary

In children, time is gold: most disorders correct well with timely diagnosis and simple, non-surgical methods, and surgery is only for cases that need it.

The services I offer

From screening and early diagnosis, to casting and bracing, physiotherapy and, when needed, specialist corrective surgery — I am with you and your child. Book a consultation for an assessment and peace of mind.