Biological basis of child health 6: development of the skeletal system and orthopaedic conditions
This article is the sixth in a series on the biological basis of child health. It provides an overview of the development of the skeletal system before and after birth, and outlines the potential congenital anomalies that may occur.
The article explains the structure and function of the bones before describing the role of the joints, tendons and ligaments. It also outlines the presentation and management of some of the common orthopaedic conditions seen in infants and children, including fractures, osteogenesis imperfecta, scoliosis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, developmental dysplasia of the hip and achondroplasia.
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Why you should read this article
• to enhance your knowledge of the development of the skeletal system before and after birth
• to understand the causes and management of various common orthopaedic conditions that infants and children may present with
• to count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers)
• to contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers).
Resource last reviewed
No date available
Authors
Beth Wilson (Named nurse for safeguarding children - Sutton Health and Care, Sutton, Surrey, England)
Kate Davies (Senior lecturer, children's nursing - School of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, London, England)
