Infant clinic Berlin

An orthopaedic examination of babies aged 4–6 weeks is strongly recommended. Of particular importance is a comprehensive examination of the locomotor organs in order to identify and treat possible hip dysplasia or maldevelopment of other locomotor organs at an early stage. Extensive neurophysiological examination is also an important part of assessing child development. Particularly during the first year of life many conditions can be treated using simple methods.

From the second year onwards children grow at a slower rate and deformities can no longer be corrected as easily. Schoolchildren often develop problems with the spine due to poor posture. Misalignments of the lower extremities (bowlegs and knock-knees) or deformities of the feet also require specialised orthopaedic assessment. During the first primary school medical examination the orthopaedist also checks the general physical requirements for starting school. Parents and teachers should, for example, be informed if a child is physically unable to sit still on a chair for longer than two hours. Parents should ensure that their child has posture-supporting furniture during their school years.

Satchels and backpacks should not be too heavy and should always be carried on the back to prevent one-sided strain on the vertebral column. The specialist can detect and treat previously unidentified abnormal growth or impaired bone development at an early stage. Abnormal growth can then be treated specifically and suitable sports activities or career paths can be recommended rather than left to chance. In particular, the choice of a future career should consider not only intellectual ability but also physical capacity.