Fast Foods And Health

Unlike back pain in adults, back pain in children is an uncommon occurrence and is usually a symptom of other underlying medical conditions. This is especially true in children under the age of 13. If the backache is accompanied by symptoms like fever, bowel or bladder problems, weakness or difficulty walking, seek medical help immediately.

Here are some of the common causes of back pain in children:

Muscle Strain

Muscle strain comes about as a result of overstretching the muscle fibers and causing injury to muscles or tendons. Treatment for this condition can include rest, administering anti-inflammatory medication, and in some cases, physical therapy.

Rounded Back

Also referred to as Scheuermann's kyphosis, this is a childhood skeletal disorder that causes the vertebra to become wedged, creating a hunched appearance which becomes more noticeable with bending. It is a self limiting condition and cannot be stopped until growth ends. Back braces and physical therapy are methods through which Scheuermann's kyphosis can be controlled.

Infection

Discitis is a condition in which an infection occurs in the intervertebral disc space; this condition causes a lot of pain and limits mobility. It can be treated with antibiotics, back braces, as well as rest and relaxation.

Spondolysis

This is a condition in which the spine begins to degenerate and as a result weakens and is unable to carry body weight. It can also result in stress fractures which may occur during intense activity that involves twisting and stretching of the spine. Pain from spondolysis may spread to the legs and the pelvis and reduce the mobility of the child. This condition can be treated with braces, anti-inflammatory medication, exercise and physical therapy. However, surgery may be required in severe cases.

Slipped vertebra

Also known as spondylolistheisis, a slipped vertebra occurs when one of the vertebrae slips out of place toward the vertebra directly below it. It usually occurs at the base of the spine, and in severe cases, the bone may press on a nerve, causing excruciating pain. In some cases, spondylolistheisis can be treated without surgery with anti inflammatory medication and physical therapy.

Tumor

In rare cases, back pain in children can be as a result of a tumor. Pains from tumors are often unrelated to activity and can even occur at night. The pain gets progressively worse and can be treated with medication, radiation, chemotherapy, or even surgery.

Scoliosis

An abnormal curvature of the spine from side to side, scoliosis may be congenital (from birth), idiopathic (unknown cause), or neuromuscular (developed from another condition). In many cases, scoliosis may be harmless. In some instances, this spinal curvature will place undue pressure and/or stress on the heart or lungs, causing breathing difficulties and, as a result, restricting physical activities.

Monitor your children regularly to make sure that they are always in good health. Many of these conditions can be treated effectively if diagnosed early enough.

Kitchi Joyce is the Director of Administrative Services for Southern Orthopaedics Specialists, a full service orthopaedic practice specializing in orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine. Southern Orthopaedics Specialists has multiple locations around the Atlanta Metro area where doctors, physicians, Atlanta orthopedic surgeons and medical staff help patients live and perform at the peak of their physical ability. Decades of experience, education and research means that all your needs for Orthopedic Doctors in Atlanta are covered, from cartilage restoration to spine care and sports medicine.