Medically complex and special needs

If your child has multiple or complex special needs affecting their musculoskeletal system, see board-certified orthopedic surgeon David Stewart, MD, at Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada in Las Vegas. He offers treatments for babies, children, and teenagers with medically complex and special needs to help them thrive physically. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.

What are medically complex and special needs?

Medically complex and special needs are medical conditions in which a child has one or more congenital or developmental conditions requiring medical intervention to optimize musculoskeletal and/or cognitive function. 

Dr. Stewart creates orthopedic treatments that help your child flourish, reduce musculoskeletal pain, or lower their risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

What are examples of medically complex and special needs?

Children with medically complex and special needs may struggle with multiple disabilities, such as:

• Hip dysplasia
• Gait disturbances
• Spasticity
• Clubfoot
• Cerebral palsy
• Traumatic brain injury
• Developmental delays (cognitive, motor, etc.)
• Severe autism
• Learning disabilities
• Paralysis 

Oftentimes, pediatric medically complex and special needs can be effectively managed with the right medical intervention that minimizes symptoms and maximizes musculoskeletal function.

What are the symptoms of medically complex and special needs?

Babies, children, and teenagers with medically complex and special needs may experience the following:

• Muscle weakness
• Stiffness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Frequent musculoskeletal injuries
• Reduced (or lack) of mobility
• Cognitive delays
• Poor motor skills
• Poor coordination
• Speech, hearing, or vision impairment

These individuals might have difficulty caring for themselves. They may benefit from lifelong medical intervention and ongoing family support. 

How are medically complex and special needs diagnosed?

Dr. Stewart meets with you and your child to learn how to best care for them. He reviews their medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, and medications. 

Dr. Stewart also completes physical and neurological exams and might order nerve testing, lab tests, X-rays, an MRI, a CT scan, an ultrasound, or other diagnostic procedures. He tailors a plan that optimizes musculoskeletal function and quality of life. 

How are medically complex and special needs treated?

Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada provides the following treatments for medically complex and special needs:

• Physical therapy 
• Medications for an underlying medical condition
• Bracing
• Casting
• Taping 
• Splinting
• Assistive devices
• Manual manipulation 
• Physical therapy 
• Specialized shoes
• Injections 
• Surgery

Routinely following up with Dr. Stewart helps ensure your child’s treatment remains effective long term. As their musculoskeletal function improves, he may adjust their treatment plan accordingly. 

Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada also offers referrals for other therapies (occupational, speech, behavioral, etc.) and school and community resources when appropriate. 

Take advantage of compassionate, top-quality orthopedic care for medically complex and special needs at Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.