Healthy Kids

Extra digits in children, also known as polydactyly, can affect both function and confidence. At POBAR, our pediatric orthopedic experts provide comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans, including surgical removal or reconstruction, to ensure your child’s hands and feet work and look their best. This guide explains the signs, diagnosis process, treatment options, recovery expectations, and ways parents can support their children through care. Partner with us to help your child thrive and develop with healthy, functional hands and feet. Noticing an extra finger or toe on your child can be alarming, but it’s more common than many parents realize. Extra digits in children, medically called polydactyly, are congenital anomalies where a child is born with additional fingers or toes. These extra digits can appear as a small nub, a fully formed finger, or a toe, and may affect hand or foot function if left untreated. Understanding the options for care and how to support your child can make the experience less stressful and help them thrive. What Are Extra Digits in Children? Extra digits, or polydactyly, occur in roughly 1 in 1,000 live births. They can appear in isolation or as part of a genetic syndrome. While some extra digits are minor, others may be fully developed and impact a child’s ability to grasp, walk, or wear standard footwear. Parents should be aware that: Extra digits can vary in size and structure Function and appearance may influence treatment decisions Untreated extra digits may lead to difficulties with fine motor skills or daily activities In addition, extra digits can sometimes affect your child’s self-confidence or make it harder for them to use standard shoes, gloves, or school supplies. Early evaluation and treatment from our team ensures that children not only develop normal function but also avoid potential psychological or social stress. We emphasize that every child is unique, and early evaluation ensures that treatment is tailored for the best possible functional and aesthetic outcome. Diagnosis and Evaluation Correct diagnosis is the first step in managing extra digits. Our pediatric orthopedic specialists use: Physical examination: Assessing the size, position, and mobility of the extra digit Imaging studies: X-rays provide detailed information about bone and joint structure, which is essential for planning treatment This thorough evaluation helps determine whether surgical removal or reconstruction is the best approach, and ensures families have a clear understanding of what to expect. Early diagnosis also gives parents peace of mind and allows for a proactive plan that minimizes potential complications as the child grows. Treatment Options for Extra Digits Treatment depends on the complexity of the extra digit and its impact on function. Surgical Removal: Most extra digits can be safely removed in the office or operating room Procedures include excision of the extra digit and careful wound closure Follow-up typically occurs 10–14 days after office-based removal Reconstruction for Complex Cases: Some extra digits involve bones, joints, or tendons that require more intricate surgery Reconstruction preserves hand or foot function while improving appearance Recovery may involve an arm or leg cast for up to three weeks Recovery and Aftercare: Wound care: Keeping the surgical site clean and dry helps prevent infection and supports healing Activity resumption: Most children return to normal activities within a few weeks to months, depending on the procedure Monitoring growth: Regular follow-ups allow our specialists to ensure that hands and feet continue to develop normally Our team works closely with parents to guide every step of recovery, ensuring children feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. Supporting Your Child at Home Parents play a vital role in helping children navigate treatment and recovery. Strategies include: Explaining the process: Age-appropriate explanations help reduce anxiety Monitoring activity: Encourage gentle use of the hand or foot without overexertion Maintaining wound care: Follow instructions carefully to prevent infection and promote healing Positive reinforcement: Celebrate small milestones during recovery to boost confidence Adaptive tools: Consider child-friendly toys and utensils to help maintain function during recovery Additionally, parents can support their child emotionally by normalizing the healing process and reassuring them that treatment is helping their hands or feet grow strong and healthy. Encouraging your child to participate in light activities and hobbies, when appropriate, helps them regain confidence and ensures their development continues uninterrupted. Long-Term Outlook With early intervention, children with extra digits typically achieve excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes. Surgical removal or reconstruction allows hands and feet to develop normally, supporting fine motor skills, walking, and participation in daily activities. We emphasize early treatment and ongoing monitoring to ensure that children continue to thrive as they grow. By addressing extra digits proactively, parents can help their children build confidence and avoid potential complications in the future. Healthy hand and foot function also allows children to comfortably participate in sports, school activities, and hobbies without limitations. Parents who stay engaged in their child’s recovery often see faster adaptation and greater satisfaction with long-term results. POBAR Pediatric Orthopedics: Expert Care for Extra Digits At POBAR, we understand the concerns parents have when their child is born with extra digits. Our experienced team provides compassionate evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and careful follow-up to ensure optimal hand and foot function. From initial diagnosis to recovery support, we are committed to helping your child thrive. Schedule a consultation today to explore how our pediatric orthopedic specialists can provide gentle, expert care tailored to your child’s needs. FAQ How common are extra digits in children? Extra digits, or polydactyly, occur in about 1 in 1,000 live births. They may appear in isolation or as part of a genetic syndrome. Can extra digits affect my child’s hand or foot function? Yes, extra digits can impact fine motor skills, grip strength, and walking depending on size and location. Surgical removal often improves function and appearance. At what age should extra digits be surgically removed? Surgery is usually performed during infancy or early childhood to reduce functional and psychological impact. Timing may vary based on health and complexity. What does recovery look like after

Active kids tend to be at risk of overuse injuries when growing bodies and repeated motion collide. Symptoms such as activity-related pain, swelling, or limpness tend to emerge gradually, but early attention can make all the difference. POBAR offers thoughtful orthopedic assessment, customized plans, and ongoing support to help your child recover, grow strong, and enjoy the sports they love. If you’re worried about persistent pain or want to prevent injuries, contact us today, because every child deserves a joyful, active future. Watching your child thrive in sports and play is a joy, but for many active young ones, too much too soon can lead to something called an overuse injury. These injuries, caused by repeated stress rather than a single accident, can creep in quietly yet interfere with your child’s comfort, confidence, and growth. We understand the unique challenges of growing bodies. We’re here to help you recognize overuse injuries in active kids, know what to do, and support your child every step of the way—with care, clarity, and compassion. What Are Overuse Injuries—and Why They Matter Unlike sprains or fractures, overuse injuries build up over time. These often affect muscles, tendons, bones, and growth plates—areas still developing in young athletes. Up to half of pediatric sports injuries fall into this category Common types in children include: Patellar tendonitis (Jumper’s knee) Osgood‑Schlatter and Sever’s diseases (growth plate inflammation) Little League shoulder/elbow Shin splints, stress fractures Osteochondritis dissecans, especially in the knee/elbow Without early attention, these injuries can lead to persistent pain, movement problems, and even missed seasons. But with timely action, most kids recover fully, often regaining strength and confidence along the way. Signs Every Parent Should Know Your intuition matters—when something feels off, it often is. Watch for: Gradual, activity-related pain Pain that worsens during the sport and eases with rest, but returns with activity. Tenderness, swelling, stiffness Especially over joints like knees, heels, elbows, or shins. Changing movement or technique Limping, favoring one side, or altered mechanics. Reduced enthusiasm Avoiding sports, practices, or expressing frustration during play. Pain that returns quickly Even after rest or home care, the discomfort comes back. Why Growing Bodies Are at Risk Children’s bones, muscles, and growth plates grow at different rates. Bones often outpace muscles and tendons, leaving areas vulnerable to repetitive stress. Early specialization—focusing on one sport year-round—can increase risk dramatically. Additional risk factors include: Rapid growth spurts High training volume with poor rest Improper technique or poorly fitted equipment Muscle weakness or imbalance How to Respond as a Parent 1. Listen and Rest If your child reports pain or discomfort, encourage rest. Ice, gentle compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.) can help ease symptoms. 2. Ask Questions When did the pain start? What makes it better or worse? Are daily activities affected? Documenting these details helps at your appointment. 3. Modify Activities Switch to low-impact options (swimming or biking), reduce intensity, and limit repetitions to support recovery. 4. Seek Expert Support If symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen, contact us. Our specialists will perform a careful evaluation—using physical exams, imaging if needed, and growth assessments—to diagnose and guide the next steps. What to Expect at POBAR Gentle assessment: Observing motion, tenderness, and alignment. Understanding the picture: What sports, training habits, or life changes could be involved? Clear communication: We explain findings in family-friendly language. Collaborative plan: This may include rest, physical therapy, bracing, and technique coaching, with a goal to bring your child back to the activities they love. Preventing Overuse Injuries Proactive measures can protect your child: Promote cross‑training: Encourage playing multiple sports or activities. Build strength and flexibility: Balanced conditioning reduces muscle imbalance. Ensure proper rest: Include rest days and limit sport hours relative to your child’s age. Check technique: Work with coaches to ensure good biomechanics. Fit gear correctly: Shoes, braces, and protective equipment matter. Watch growth spurts: Reduce intensity during rapid growth phases. Early awareness is key—listening to your child and slowing down when needed can prevent small pains from becoming big problems. We’re Partners in Your Child’s Care We understand the pride and concern that come with raising an active child. Our pediatric orthopedic and sports-injury experts treat the whole child—physically, emotionally, and within the context of their family and sport. Together, we help children recover, regain confidence, and return to play—stronger and happier than before. Contact POBAR and Let’s Take the Next Step Together If you suspect your child may be experiencing an overuse injury or if you’d like support building a prevention plan, please reach out. Schedule an evaluation with POBAR today. We’ll listen with care, act with expertise, and help your child heal with their whole future in mind. FAQ What counts as an overuse injury? It’s pain or discomfort that builds with repeated activity—like growing knees, heels, elbows, or lower back—and isn’t tied to a single injury. How long should pain last before seeing a doctor? If symptoms persist beyond a week, return after rest, or interfere with daily life or sports, it’s time to get evaluated. Will my child need an X-ray or an MRI? Sometimes imaging is needed to check bones or growth plates. We’ll only recommend it if it adds helpful information. Can rest alone fix the problem? Rest helps, but additional measures—like physical therapy, strengthening, and sport modification—often speed healing and prevent recurrence. Should we stop the sport completely? Temporary reduction helps, but permanent avoidance isn’t always necessary. We’ll help guide a return-to-play plan that promotes safe, sustained progress.   Dr BradleyDr. Timothy Bradley, a distinguished member of the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, is a leading expert in pediatric orthopedics serving the community of Brandon, Riverview and whole of Tampa. With a commitment to providing the highest quality care for young patients, Dr. Bradley has earned a reputation for excellence in the field. His expertise and dedication to improving the lives of children through orthopedic solutions make him a trusted authority in the orthopedic community.

Preparing well for your child’s first orthopedic appointment can make all the difference. From gathering medical history and talking openly with your child, to knowing what happens during the visit and following through at home, every step helps your family feel confident, informed, and supported. At POBAR, we’re committed to making this experience calm, caring, and tailored to your child’s needs. If you’re ready to take the next step—or have questions—reach out to us today. We’re here for you and your child, every step of the way. Preparing for your child’s first orthopedic appointment can feel overwhelming, but with thoughtful preparation, you’ll help them—and yourself—enter the visit with confidence and peace. At POBAR in Tampa and Brandon, FL, we understand how important this first step is. Our goal is to make your family feel supported, informed, and cared for every step of the way. Why This Appointment Matters Your child’s first orthopedic visit is more than a checkup—it’s the start of a partnership. It helps us: Understand your child’s individual needs and health history. Perform a gentle and thorough evaluation. Get to know your family’s concerns and goals. Begin building a care plan that ensures your child thrives. By coming prepared, you’re helping us offer clear, compassionate guidance tailored just for you, and we’re here to walk this path with you. Before the Visit: What You Can Do Gather Helpful Information Bring these documents and details: Medical history: Any previous imaging (X-rays, scans), school or sports evaluations, doctors’ notes. Medications: List any daily medicines, including over‑the‑counter vitamins or pain relievers. Symptom diary: Brief notes on when pain or difficulty started, what triggers it, and how it affects daily life. Arriving early—20–30 minutes before your appointment—gives you time to complete registration and share this information without stress. Talk With Your Child Offer reassurance: Explain that the appointment is about helping them feel better. Use simple words like “strong bones” or “happy legs.” Let them know they’ll meet a friendly doctor who wants to help. Dress for Comfort Choose clothing that’s easy to move in—short sleeves and shorts are perfect. It helps your child feel relaxed and allows the provider to perform gentle movement tests easily. What Happens at the Appointment Warm Welcome & Chat You’ll meet our nurse and orthopedic specialist in a calm, child-friendly space. We’ll ask: What brought you in today? When did you first notice the issue? How is it affecting your child’s play, school, or sleep? We listen with care because your observations matter. Gentle Physical Exam We’ll start slowly: Watch your child walk or move. Check their strength, flexibility, posture, and balance. Evaluate the affected limb or joint with a gentle, reassuring touch. Imaging or Tests (If Needed) To learn more, we may recommend: X-rays (using low radiation), MRIs, or CT scans. Further assessments explained thoroughly and at your comfort level. After the Appointment: What Comes Next Clear & Compassionate Feedback We’ll share our findings in straightforward, gentle terms. Our aim is to help you understand: What’s happening and why. What options are available, and why surgery may or may not be necessary. Most importantly, what feels right for your child. Personalized Care Plan Your child receives a tailored plan that may include: Observation and follow‑up monitoring. Bracing or orthotic devices. Physical therapy. (In some cases) Surgery—but only if it truly supports long-term well-being. We always explain the reasoning behind each option with patience and clarity. How to Support Your Child at Home Your care extends beyond our clinic. Here’s how you can help: Validate their feelings: “It’s okay to feel nervous—we’re in this together.” Encourage mobility: Playful movement or gentle exercises as recommended. Keep follow-up: Adhering to visits and treatment helps your child stay on track. Celebrate small victories: Each improvement, each step forward, is worth recognizing. You’re an integral part of this journey, and your care matters deeply. Why POBAR Is Here for You From our locations in Tampa and Brandon to our loving team of specialists, POBAR is dedicated to guiding families with expertise and empathy. We offer: A calm, supportive environment for both child and parent. Clear, jargon-free conversations. Individualized care that grows with your child. A trusted place to ask any questions, at any stage. If your child’s first orthopedic appointment is coming up, or if you’ve noticed anything that concerns you, we’re ready to help. Contact POBAR today to schedule an evaluation. Together, we’ll take compassionate steps toward your child’s health and happiness. FAQ What should I bring to the first appointment? Bring medical history, previous imaging or reports, a list of medications, and your notes on symptoms. Arriving early helps ensure a relaxed start. Will my child need X‑rays? Sometimes. X‑rays help us understand bones and growth plates. If needed, we’ll explain why and how it will be done safely. Is this visit painful for my child? Not at all. Exams are gentle and caring. Imaging is painless, and we always move at your child’s pace. When will we get results or recommendations? Often, we can share initial findings right away. If additional imaging or tests are needed, we’ll review the results with you promptly. What if we need more treatment? We’ll discuss all options clearly. Whether it’s therapy, bracing, or monitoring, no decision is rushed. Dr BradleyDr. Timothy Bradley, a distinguished member of the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, is a leading expert in pediatric orthopedics serving the community of Brandon, Riverview and whole of Tampa. With a commitment to providing the highest quality care for young patients, Dr. Bradley has earned a reputation for excellence in the field. His expertise and dedication to improving the lives of children through orthopedic solutions make him a trusted authority in the orthopedic community. Dr. Bradley’s  work at POBAR in Tampa exemplifies his passion for compassionate and effective healthcare, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for young patients.

Physical therapy plays a gentle, powerful role in every stage of your child’s orthopedic journey—whether supporting recovery from injury, guiding growth, or enhancing movement and confidence. At POBAR, our compassionate, fun, and family-centered approach helps children heal stronger and happier. Ready to explore how PT can support your child? Contact us today. We’re here to help your family take confident, caring steps forward. When your child faces a bone, joint, or growth‐related condition, physical therapy becomes a powerful source of healing, strength, and confidence. Our pediatric physical therapy is more than exercises—it’s a gentle path toward restored play, growth, and well‑being. We understand how hard it is to watch your child struggle, and we’re committed to guiding your family with warmth, compassion, and expertise. Why Physical Therapy Matters Physical therapy for pediatric orthopedics offers vital benefits that support every stage of your child’s journey: Restore Function & Mobility – Through specialized, play‑based exercises, young bones and muscles regain strength and movement. Reduce Pain & Swelling – Techniques such as gentle stretching, range‑of‑motion exercises, and therapeutic modalities ease discomfort. Encourage Healthy Growth – Especially after injuries like fractures or growth‐plate trauma, PT ensures alignment and proper development. Prevent Future Issues – Strengthening and coordination exercises support joints and bones, reducing the risk of repeated injuries. Boost Confidence – Fun, engaging sessions help children feel capable and motivated, physically and emotionally. Common Conditions Treated with PT We often use physical therapy to support children facing: Fractures and Growth Plate Injuries – Restoring strength and correcting alignment after casts or bracing. Gait Abnormalities – Improving walking patterns caused by limb length differences or muscle imbalances. Joint Sprains & Dislocations – Rebuilding function and range of motion after injuries. Congenital Conditions – Such as clubfoot, hip dysplasia, or muscle tone differences. Developmental & Neuromuscular Disorders – Including toe walking, torticollis, flatfeet, and cerebral palsy. What to Expect at Physical Therapy 1. Child‑Centred Assessment Our therapists begin with a playful evaluation—observing how your child walks, sits, and plays—and perform gentle tests for strength, balance, and flexibility. 2. Personalized, Fun‑Based Plan Therapy incorporates engaging activities: obstacle courses, balls, balance games, swings, even underwater play—all designed to feel like playtime while promoting recovery. 3. Family Involvement We teach you easy exercises to continue at home, turning everyday time into healing moments. 4. Steady Progress Tracking Every visit is an opportunity to celebrate progress—from improved steps and strength to greater confidence and joy. 5. Collaboration with Your Orthopedic Team Our therapists work closely with our specialists to align goals, ensuring seamless care whether recovering from surgery, injury, or growth-related issues. When Does PT Join the Orthopedic Journey? Physical therapy may begin: After Injury Healing – Once a fracture is stabilized or a sprain is no longer acutely painful. Post‑Surgery – To rebuild strength and restore movement safely. Early in Developmental Issues – To guide hip dysplasia, torticollis, or gait changes. Alongside Bracing – Such as for scoliosis or flat feet, where movement aids correction. Your Family’s Role in Therapy Your support is essential: Create a calm routine for home exercises. Celebrate daily improvements—whether a new jump, smoother gait, or less pain. Keep appointments—inconsistent therapy can delay progress. Ask questions—our team is here to guide and reassure you at every stage. Why Choose POBAR for Physical Therapy At POBAR, we offer: Specialized Pediatric Experience – Therapists trained in children’s growth and movement. Compassionate, Supportive Environment – Low‑stress sessions that feel safe and fun. Seamless Orthopedic Collaboration – Full coordination with our surgeons and specialists. State‑of‑the‑Art Care – Combining hands‑on techniques, therapeutic play, and parental education. Your child’s healing isn’t just physical—it’s about helping them grow stronger, more confident, and joyful again. Let’s Take the Next Step Together If your child is beginning—or already on—the orthopedic journey with us, physical therapy can be the heart of their progress. Reach out to us today to schedule a PT evaluation. Together, we’ll create a gentle, effective plan tailored to your child’s needs, guiding their steps toward a brighter, healthier future. FAQ What age is PT appropriate for? Physical therapy helps children from infancy through adolescence. Early intervention—especially for developmental concerns—can make a big difference. Is physical therapy painful? Not in the least. All activities are designed to be gentle, fun, and encouraging. Kids often think it’s play. How long does therapy take? The timeline depends on your child’s condition. Some improve in a few sessions; others benefit from ongoing care over months. Will PT replace surgery? Not always, but it often helps avoid surgery or makes recovery faster and smoother when surgery is needed. What if we miss a session? Consistency helps, but don’t worry—a little scheduling bump won’t ruin progress. Just keep in touch to stay on track.   Dr BradleyDr. Timothy Bradley, a distinguished member of the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, is a leading expert in pediatric orthopedics serving the community of Brandon, Riverview and whole of Tampa. With a commitment to providing the highest quality care for young patients, Dr. Bradley has earned a reputation for excellence in the field. His expertise and dedication to improving the lives of children through orthopedic solutions make him a trusted authority in the orthopedic community. Dr. Bradley’s  work at POBAR in Tampa exemplifies his passion for compassionate and effective healthcare, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for young patients.