Practice Specialties: Pediatric Care

There are numerous conditions associated with pediatric care that require highly specialized treatment, and many are present at birth. These conditions include scoliosis, congenital clubfoot deformities, spina bifida and cerebral palsy. Treatment is sometimes conservative, but in some cases, intricate surgical procedures are necessary.

Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine. Because there are few symptoms associated with it, the curve is usually detected during a physical examination, and x-rays should confirm it. Treatment depends on the severity of the curve and the time of its onset. Bracing is used to straighten the spine, but surgery is sometimes needed in order to straighten and fuse the vertebrae together.

Congenital Clubfoot
Congenital clubfoot deformity is a condition in which the foot is rigidly deformed. It can sometimes be corrected with casting and bracing, but surgery is often needed.

Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is the result of an injury to the brain in which there is poor muscle control, paralysis and other neurological conditions. There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but the secondary deformities and effects can be treated.

Dr. Thomas C. Mitchell completed a pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Fellowship at The Shriners' Hospital for Crippled Children in Shreveport, Louisiana. In addition to those listed above, he also treats many congenital conditions and limb deformities such as bowed legs, leg length discrepancies and hip dysplasia. Many of these can be treated through conservative methods such as casting and bracing, while others may require surgery.

All physicians at the Southern Orthopedic Specialists, P.A. provide care for common pediatric injuries, fractures and disorders.