Common Pediatric MSK Concerns

Location

Can the problem be localized? This is largely discovered in the physical examination though older children may be able to identify the site of origin.

  1. Can the site of origin be located by palpation or motion of an affected joint?
  2. Is there a point of maximum tenderness?
  3. Examine specifically for referred sources of pain. Remember, the pain of hip pathology can be referred very convincingly to the thigh or knee.