What I Want Parents to Know About Children’s Bones, Joints and Movement

From Mr Pranai Buddhdev, Consultant Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon.

As #TheKidsBoneDoc, my role is to look after children’s bones, joints, muscles and movement, but my real aim is much broader than treating injuries or conditions. It’s about helping children function and flourish, not just now, but throughout their lives.

One of the most important messages I want families to hear is this:

Movement is essential for healthy growth

Children are designed to move. Running, jumping, climbing, falling, getting back up- this is how bones become strong, joints develop well, and coordination improves. Regular, age-appropriate physical activity is one of the most powerful tools we have for building healthy musculoskeletal systems.

Strong bones are not just inherited; they are built through play, sport and everyday activity, especially during childhood and adolescence when growth is rapid.

Vitamin D matters more than many families realise

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health by helping the body absorb calcium and build strong, resilient bones. In the UK, vitamin D deficiency is common- particularly in children who:

• Spend limited time outdoors
• Have darker skin tones
• Cover their skin for cultural or religious reasons
• Follow restrictive diets

Low vitamin D levels can contribute to bone pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, delayed recovery from injury and, in severe cases, conditions such as rickets.

For this reason, routine vitamin D supplementation is recommended for many children, especially during autumn and winter months. Parents should discuss appropriate dosing with their pharmacist, GP or paediatric specialist, particularly if a child has ongoing pain, recurrent injuries or a known deficiency.

Pain and limping are not “just growing pains”

While many aches during growth are entirely normal, there are some signs that should never be ignored:

• Persistent pain
• Limping or favouring one leg
• Swelling around a joint
• Difficulty weight-bearing
• Pain that limits play, sport or sleep

These are not things children should simply “push through.” Early assessment often means simpler treatment, faster recovery, and better long-term outcomes.

Most children do not need surgery

It’s important for parents to know that surgery is only a small part of paediatric orthopaedics. The majority of conditions we see, from sports injuries to growth-related concerns- are managed with:

• Reassurance and education
• Physiotherapy
• Activity modification
• Monitoring growth over time

When surgery is recommended, it is because it offers a clear long-term benefit to function, comfort or development, not because it is the default option.

Children are not small adults

A child’s skeleton is constantly changing. Growth plates, developing joints and evolving movement patterns mean that conditions can look worrying but often improve naturally- while others benefit from timely input before they become more complex.

Common concerns such as flat feet, knock-knees, in-toeing, hip pain or knee pain during sport usually have excellent outcomes when assessed in the right context and at the right time.

Safety supports freedom — it doesn’t limit it

Encouraging movement also means encouraging sensible safety:

• Well-fitting footwear
• Protective equipment where appropriate
• Gradual increases in training and sport
• Adequate rest, recovery and nutrition

These measures don’t stop children from being active, they help them stay active for longer.

You are your child’s best advocate

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Asking questions early, seeking reassurance, or requesting a specialist opinion is never a failure- it’s part of caring well for your child.

Healthy bones and joints underpin everything children love to do: play, sport, independence and confidence. My goal is not just to treat problems, but to help children grow into adults who move well, feel strong, and enjoy an active life.

If you have concerns about your child’s bones, joints, or movement or simply want expert advice on keeping them active and healthy, our paediatric orthopaedic team is here to help. Book a consultation today to discuss your child’s needs and ensure they have the support to move well, stay strong, and enjoy an active life.