Hemophilia can cause many symptoms, including:

• Pain or swelling in joints
• Excessive bleeding after dental work
• Large or unexplained bruises

Hemophilia is often diagnosed soon after a baby is born. For example, if you have a family history of hemophilia, your child might be tested right away. Or a test might be run if your child is showing signs of excessive bleeding after circumcision.

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However, kids can be diagnosed later, particularly if they have a mild case. If your child’s doctor suspects hemophilia, you can come see us at LuskinOIC for testing.

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Diagnosis usually involves screening a child’s blood and running some special tests.

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At LuskinOIC, our multidisciplinary treatment team includes hematology, orthopedic surgery, physical therapy and social work. We recognize that it’s critical to treat the whole patient, not just the disease.

Together, we’re able to provide the highest quality care to children and adults of all ages who have hemophilia or other bleeding disorders.

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Physical therapy is an important part of the treatment of hemophilia. With physical therapy, patients will:

• Strengthen the muscles around their joints
• Learn joint control exercises to keep the bones moving in good alignment

Restorative physical therapy takes place after doctors have already treated and stabilized the joint bleed. The goal of this kind of physical therapy is to increase:

• Motion
• Strength
• Control
• Endurance
• Balance

Hemophilia isn’t a short-term problem, but with the right planning and prevention, your child’s life can be as rich and happy as anyone else’s.

Knowing how to manage health needs—from assistance at school (or work) to treatment for sudden bleeding—will be critical for staying healthy. Also, knowing how to cope with challenges and advocate for yourself or your child can boost your confidence.

The LuskinOIC Orthopaedic Hemophilia Treatment Center (OHTC) is here to help you and your child every step of the way.

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