Normal variants and disorders of growth: apophysitis

Abstract

Musculoskeletal conditions in children frequently lead to referrals to paediatric orthopaedic clinics, driven by anxiety among parents and primary care providers. Normal variants, which represent a substantial proportion of these referrals, require thorough understanding to distinguish them from pathologic conditions and provide appropriate reassurance. This review outlines common normal variants and disorders of growth, categorized by presenting complaints, anatomical location, and age group. Effective management often involves parental reassurance, observation, and conservative measures such as physiotherapy and activity modification. Surgical interventions are rarely required. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration between paediatric orthopaedic surgeons and primary care providers, this review highlights the importance of musculoskeletal education to reduce unnecessary referrals and optimize patient care.