UF Health Pediatric Orthopaedics, an Alliance with Shriners Children's, boasts the region’s most complete scope of practices for pediatric orthopaedics, which is why patients trust us to provide outstanding care for children with musculoskeletal issues.

We accomplish this with physicians who shine as fellowship-trained pediatric orthopaedic surgeons. Our pediatric orthopaedic specialists are trained to help children with conditions that affect their bones, joints and spine. Since children’s bones have yet to fully develop, the approach must center on remedying the affected area but also keeping the child on track for healthy growth.

Additionally, these highly skilled physicians have a patient-centered facility at their disposal, the nationally recognized Shriners Center of Excellence. The facility features kid-friendly space and cutting-edge imaging and technology, including EOS low-dose imaging, all located on the fourth floor of the UF Health Orthopaedics Sports Medicine Institute (OSMI).

Of the conditions above, two that are most regularly seen are scoliosis (curvature of the spine) and club foot, a developmental deformity in which the feet are turned inward, which causes a child to walk on the sides of the foot.

Club foot is treated with a process known as Ponseti casting. This involves casting the foot every one to two weeks to straighten it, usually followed by a small surgery and bracing.

Scoliosis and related conditions can cause very severe and even life-threatening problems in growing children. Pediatric orthopaedic surgeons use a variety of technologies and treatments, including Mehta casting and magnetic controlled growing rods for younger children, and vertebral body tethering and fusion for children who are older.

Pediatric orthopaedic surgeons treat complex fractures in children, which can sometimes affect the growth of the bone.

Pediatric orthopaedic surgeons also treat brittle bone conditions like osteogenesis imperfecta, bone tumors in children, hip dysplasia, and the effects of cerebral palsy and other health problems that impair movement.