Preventive pediatric orthopedics.

Prevention programs for pediatric orthopedic disorders are deficient in the United States today primarily due to a lack of knowledge about their incidence and ultimate disability. Open neural tube defects, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, spastic dislocation of the hip, congenital dislocation of the hip, and idiopathic scoliosis are common problems with preventable aspects. These facts should be known by all physicians involved in the care of children.