Pediatric Mobility Flashcards
Mobility is important for ________ in pediatrics
Enhancing independence
Complete fracture
Bone breaks all the way through
Incomplete Fracture
A partial break in the bone, but not completely in two
Plastic Deformation
Bending of the bone (because kids have more flexible bones)
Simple fracture
Bone does not puncture the skin
Compound fracture
Bone punctures the skin
Types of fractures lines
Transverse: Stright
Oblique: 45 degrees or so angle
Spiral: Spirals around bone
Treatment for fractures
Immobilizers, surgical intervention, physical therapy
Types of immobilizers
Traction, Casts and Splints, Boots
Surgical interventions
Internal fixation: Plates and screws inside the body
External fixation: Hardware outside the body
Complications of treatment
- Impaired circulation
- Compartment syndrome (Excessive swelling that leads to increased pressure)
- Physeal involvement (Disrupted growth plate)
- Nonunion or malunion (Failed/Improper healing)
- Infection
- Pulmonary Emboli
Contractures
Shortening of muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin that restrict normal movement and flexability
Contracture Causes
- Prolonged immobility
- Neurological conditions
- Trauma or Burns
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Hypotonia
Reduced muscle tone leading to “Floppy” Appearance
Often associated with underlying disorders (Down syndrome)
Hypotonia treatment
Therapies
Cerebral Palsy
Non-progressive motor dysfunction due to brain damage
Cerebral Palsy clinical presentation
Early signs: Head lag, asymmetry, leg stiffness
Milestone delays, muscle tone abnormalities, movement disorders
Scoliosis
Congenital: Spine curved to the side - “S” Shaped
Scoliosis Treatment
Mild: Observation and follow-up
Bracing to prevent progression (25-45 degree curves)
Severe: Surgery (or when bracing is ineffective)
NAT (Non Accidental Trauma)
Physical injuries inflicted on a child deliberately, often associated with abuse or neglect
Long term consequences of NAT
- Chronic Pain
- Disabilities
- Disfigurement
