Experts cite five orthopedic tests that physicians and patients should question

Pediatric orthopedic experts have agreed on a list of five tests and procedures that pediatric physicians and their patients should question.

The American Academy of Pediatrics–Section on Orthopaedics and the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) provide the following list:

• Do not order a screening hip ultrasound to rule out developmental hip dysplasia or developmental hip dislocation if the baby has no risk factors and has a clinically stable hip examination.
• Do not order radiographs or advise bracing or surgery for a child less than 8 years of age with simple in-toeing gait.
• Do not order custom orthotics or shoe inserts for a child with minimally symptomatic or asymptomatic flat feet.
• Do not order advanced imaging studies (MRI or CT) for most musculoskeletal conditions in a child until all appropriate clinical, laboratory, and plain radiographic examinations have been completed.
• Do not order follow-up x-rays for buckle (or torus) fractures if they are no longer tender or painful.