Pediatric orthopaedic deformities encompass a wide range of congenital, developmental, and acquired conditions affecting the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the growing musculoskeletal system. Unlike adult orthopaedic pathology, pediatric deformities must be evaluated in the context of skeletal growth, maturation, and remodeling potential, making accurate diagnosis and timing of intervention critical.

Deformities may be present at birth, such as clubfoot or developmental hip dysplasia, or emerge during growth due to abnormal bone development, neuromuscular conditions, trauma, or metabolic disease. Common presentations include limb alignment abnormalities, limb length discrepancy, spinal deformities, gait abnormalities, and restricted joint motion. Some deformities are benign and self-correcting, while others may progress and lead to permanent functional impairment if untreated.

Clinical assessment requires careful observation of posture, gait, limb alignment, and joint mobility, along with detailed history including developmental milestones and family history. Differentiating normal variants of growth from pathological deformities is a key orthopaedic skill, as unnecessary intervention may be as harmful as delayed treatment.

Imaging is used judiciously to assess bone alignment, joint development, and growth plate integrity. Interpretation must consider age-appropriate norms and remaining growth potential. Growth modulation plays a central role in pediatric orthopaedics, allowing correction of deformity over time through guided growth techniques rather than immediate structural correction.

Management strategies range from observation and bracing to surgical correction, depending on deformity severity, progression, and functional impact. Timing is critical; interventions may be planned to coincide with growth spurts or skeletal maturity to optimize outcomes.

Surgical correction in children aims to restore alignment while preserving growth potential and minimizing long-term consequences. Rehabilitation focuses on functional development, mobility, and participation in age-appropriate activities. Pediatric orthopaedic deformities require specialized expertise, longitudinal follow-up, and family education to ensure optimal musculoskeletal development and lifelong function.