Musculoskeletal pain

More than 20% of children and teenagers experience chronic pain. If your child develops musculoskeletal pain and needs relief, turn to Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada in Las Vegas. Board-certified orthopedic surgeon David Stewart, MD, offers non-surgical and surgical solutions to ease discomfort in soft tissues, bones, and joints. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or booking a visit online today.

What is musculoskeletal pain?

Musculoskeletal pain is a feeling of discomfort in the joints, bones, muscles, tendons, or ligaments. It may happen for various reasons, including injuries, congenital conditions (something a child is born with), aging, or diseases. 

Fortunately, treatment at Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada helps ease chronic pain in babies, children, and teenagers.

What are the symptoms of musculoskeletal pain?

Musculoskeletal pain might present as:

• Mild, moderate, or extreme discomfort
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Soreness
• Limited range of motion
• Reduced mobility
• Joint or muscle pain 
• Aching
• Burning discomfort
• Sharp pain
• Pain with movement
• Difficulty sleeping
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Gait disturbances

Your child may have a visible musculoskeletal deformity that may be causing their discomfort. 

Acute musculoskeletal pain often appears suddenly and might be severe, though temporary. Chronic musculoskeletal pain is longer-lasting.

What might cause musculoskeletal pain?

The following may contribute to musculoskeletal pain:

• Musculoskeletal injuries, such as sports injuries
• Hip dysplasia
• Gait disturbances
• Developmental conditions
• Congenital conditions 
• Clubfoot 
• Arthritis
• Connective tissue diseases
• Lupus
• Fibromyalgia
• Overtraining
• Scoliosis
• Shin splints

Dr. Stewart helps identify the root cause of your child’s or teenager’s musculoskeletal pain and offers effective, long-lasting solutions.

How is the cause of musculoskeletal pain diagnosed?

At Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada, Dr. Stewart reviews your child’s medical history, lifestyle, symptoms, and medications. 

He also completes a physical exam. Dr. Stewart might order blood tests, X-rays, an MRI, a CT scan, an ultrasound, or other diagnostic procedures to learn the best way to treat your child's musculoskeletal discomfort. 

How is musculoskeletal pain treated?

Custom treatment plans for musculoskeletal pain are based on the underlying cause and may consist of:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Bracing, casting, taping, or splinting
• Walking boot
• Footwear changes
• Assistive devices
• Physical therapy
• Manual manipulation
• Medications
• Injections
• Surgery

It’s helpful to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of sleep, minimize stress, not smoke, and follow Dr. Stewart’s treatment plan exactly as instructed. 

Check in with him periodically to ensure long-lasting results and a better quality of life for your child. He can alter their treatment as needed to maximize pain relief. Contact the Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada office anytime with questions. 

Schedule a musculoskeletal pain evaluation at Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.