12 month well visit

This is a big one and very important exam not to miss.  We start by addressing ongoing problems, as usual.  We also examine growth and development.  Major milestones at this time include making sure that the child is cruising and saying at least 1-2 words.

As always we conduct a thourough physical exam and address vaccine issues.  At 12 months the children are due for several new vaccines including Measles and Chicken Pox.

At the 12 month visit we also recommend a check for anemia and screening for lead intoxication.

Finally we discuss safety regarding toddlers, introducing whole milk, removal of dietary restrictions and when to change to a forward facing car seat.

I hope that this helps you to see why we do what we do.

Kevin M. Windisch MD, FAAP
Sparks Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine
975 Roberta Lane Suite 101B
Sparks, NV 89431
(775) 359-7111

Sprains

The upcoming summer time means picnics and pick up football/soccer games.  With those games come ankle sprains.  What should you do?  Well first, make sure you don't have a fracture.  This probably means seeing your physician, sorry. 

Once you are sure that nothing is broken, start with some ice.  Apply it 15 minutes 4 times per day. 

Next start motrin 10 mg/kg/dose 3 times per day.  For adult sized kids that means 3-4 over the counter tabs 3 times per day no matter what.  Take this dose with food or it will irritate the stomach.

Wrap the injured limb with a tight compression wrap.  How tight?  Not so tight that you can't wiggle the toes, the goal here isn't to immobilize the foot but rather to apply compression the the swelling.

Finally rest the limb and elevate it above the level of the heart as much of the day as possible.  After 4-5 days start with simple nonweight bearing range of motion exercises to prevent the foot from becoming stiff.  This can be done by spelling the alphabet with your foot both small and capital letters 3 times per day.

If you aren't doing well in 2-3 weeks you may benefit from physical therapy, see your physician.

Kevin M. Windisch MD, FAAP
Sparks Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine
(775) 359-7111
975 Roberta Lane, suite 101 B, Sparks, NV 89431.
www.facebook.com/sparkspeds.nv

Summer time, sum sum summer tiime- tan

Tanning beds greatly increase your risks of skin cancer and sun induced aging.  These effects are more notable in children than in adults because children's skin is more sensitive to the ultraviolet rays of the beds.  It is our recommendation that all teens and children avoid tanning beds at all costs.

I hope that this has been enlightening.

Kevin M. Windisch MD FAAP
Sparks Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine
975 Roberta Lane # 101B
Sparks, NV 89431
(775) 359-7111