Why are paediatric orthopaedic screening tests particularly important?

The role of childhood screening in paediatric orthopaedics

Screening tests in childhood - especially orthopaedic screening, play a key role in ensuring children's healthy musculoskeletal development. Many musculoskeletal disorders are initially asymptomatic and only later develop into irreversible problems. Regular and professional screening is the key to early detection and timely treatment.

The paediatric orthopaedics one of its most important tasks is preventive screening. A paediatric orthopaedic screening tests start from infancy and continue until adulthood (age 18). The aim is to identify, before symptoms develop, abnormalities that may cause pain, mobility problems or developmental delay in the future.

Age-specific screenings are linked to specific stages in a child's development. During these, the orthopaedic specialist assesses the state of the musculoskeletal system and, if necessary, recommends interventions.

The importance of hip screening in infancy

The first and one of the most critical childhood screening infant hip screening, which is recommended before 6 weeks of age. The examination uses ultrasound and physical methods to look for possible developmental abnormalities.

What is a „silent hip”?

The term „silent hip” refers to hip joint abnormalities that are asymptomatic but can lead to serious musculoskeletal problems if left untreated. Examples include congenital hip dislocation or an early form of unstable hip joint. Screening allows these to be detected early and, with the right treatment, a full recovery can be achieved.

How is an infant hip screening done?

The aim of infant hip screening early detection of developmental disorders of the hip joint, with particular attention to the prevention of congenital hip dysplasia. The test is painless, quick and completely safe for the baby.

Step-by-step procedure for hip screening:

1. Taking a medical history

The test starts with a short interview. A specialist he asks:

• the circumstances of pregnancy and childbirth,
• the baby's birth weight,
• breech or twin pregnancy,
• a family history of orthopaedic problems.

2. Physical examination

Next, the baby's hip joints manual (hand) inspection:

• The baby lies on its back and the examiner gently moves the thighs in different directions.
• It checks the mobility of the hips, looseness, possible clicks or tightness.
• It observes the symmetry of the femurs, the difference in leg length and the position of the legs.

3. Ultrasound examination

The next step is a ultrasound of the hip joint, with the help of:

• we get an accurate picture of the structure and maturity of the hip joint,
• determine whether the femoral head is properly positioned in the joint socket,
• early abnormalities (e.g. immaturity, instability, dislocation) can also be detected.

What happens if there is a discrepancy?

Most mild hip imbalances do not require treatment, just observation and repeated monitoring. For more severe abnormalities, early treatment can lead to complete recovery - the sooner it starts, the better the results.

Monitoring of movement development and muscle tone disorders

After the hip screening, the focus is on monitoring the development of movement. A childhood screening tests professionals pay particular attention to the development of muscle tone and movement patterns. During the first year of life, there may be many signs of an abnormality that do not initially seem to be a problem.

What are the signs to look out for?

• If the child does not start to turn, climb, stand up or walk in time.
• If the movement is asymmetric, for example, if it turns only to one side.
• If your muscle tone is too tight or too loose.

In these cases, targeted physiotherapy or other developmental therapy may be needed during the specialist examination.

The role of parents

The paediatric orthopaedic screening tests the active involvement of parents is essential for the success of the project. Timely and regular check-ups and conscious monitoring of the development of movement can make a major contribution to the prevention of disorders.

Help from an experienced specialist

The childhood screening tests - in particular orthopaedic screening - are essential for a child's healthy mobility development. Early detection, targeted intervention and parental cooperation allow us to prevent future musculoskeletal problems and ensure harmonious development.