Pediatric Orthopaedic Care in Hilo, HI
Children are active, growing, and always on the move, which means bumps, breaks, and sports injuries are part of growing up. At Peter A. Matsuura, MD., Dr. Peter A. Matsuura treats pediatric injuries and congenital orthopaedic problems in Hilo, HI with care designed specifically for growing bones and joints. Our goal is to help your child heal well and get back to playing, learning, and being a kid.
Why Children Need Specialized Orthopaedic Care
Children’s bones are not simply smaller versions of adult bones. They are more flexible, heal faster, and contain growth plates, areas of developing cartilage near the ends of long bones that determine future length and shape. Injuries near a growth plate need careful evaluation and treatment to protect healthy growth.
Pediatric Conditions We Treat
- Fractures, including growth plate fractures and forearm and wrist fractures
- Dislocations of the elbow, shoulder, and fingers
- Sprains and strains from sports and play
- Overuse injuries in young athletes, including baseball elbow
- Knee injuries, including ACL and meniscus tears
- Congenital orthopaedic problems present at birth
Kid-Friendly, Family-Centered Care
Dr. Matsuura and our team take time to explain the injury and treatment plan in a way children and parents can understand. Our in-office digital X-rays use lower radiation levels, an important benefit for young patients. Many pediatric injuries heal well with casting, splinting, or bracing, and surgery is recommended only when it offers the best outcome.
Helping Young Athletes Stay in the Game
Youth sports are a great way to stay healthy, but repetitive motions and year-round play can lead to overuse injuries. We help young athletes recover and return to activity safely, and we share guidance on proper warm-ups, rest, and conditioning to reduce injury risk. Encouraging healthy exercise habits during childhood supports strong bones and joints for life.
To schedule an appointment for your child, call (808) 969-3331 or visit our new patients page to learn how to register. You can also explore our full range of orthopaedic services.
Pediatric Orthopaedic FAQs
Does Dr. Matsuura treat children?
Yes. Dr. Matsuura treats pediatric injuries and congenital orthopaedic problems in children and teens.
What is a growth plate fracture?
A growth plate fracture is an injury to the area of developing cartilage near the end of a child’s long bone. These fractures require careful treatment to support normal growth.
Do children’s fractures heal faster than adults’?
Generally, yes. Children’s bones tend to heal more quickly, but proper alignment and follow-up are still important.
Are X-rays safe for children?
Our digital X-ray equipment uses lower levels of radiation than older systems, and imaging is only performed when medically helpful.
How can I tell if my child’s injury needs to be seen?
Seek care if your child has significant pain, swelling, deformity, trouble using the limb, or cannot bear weight after an injury.
Can overuse injuries happen in young athletes?
Yes. Repetitive activities, such as pitching or running, can cause overuse injuries. Rest, proper technique, and conditioning help reduce risk.
Will my child need surgery?
Most pediatric injuries heal with casting, splinting, or bracing. Surgery is recommended only when necessary for the best outcome.