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children were referred to St. Thomas's Hospital for out-patient
treatment with the following conditions:—
Infantile paralysis.
Spastic hemiplegia.
Pseudo-hypertrophic muscular dystrophy.
Wart on sole of foot.
Torticollis.
Two other children were referred to St. Thomas's Hospital for
X-ray investigation.
Nineteen children were referred from the Orthopaedic
Clinic for alterations to surgical boots or wedging of their
shoes, etc. Thirty-nine children were referred to the Exercises
Clinic at the Health Centre, which is attended by the orthopaedic
nurse two sessions each week. Most of these children
were suffering from flat foot, postural defects, etc. Faradic
treatment was provided in two cases. The children attending
the Exercises Clinic are examined from time to time by the
orthopaedic surgeon. The attendances at this Clinic, on the
whole, have been good.
The Orthopaedic Clinic is used mainly as a consultative
centre and many of the children are referred by the school
medical staff for diagnosis. This ensures early treatment
being secured. There is no doubt that there are fewer severe
cases of crippling amongst school children in Wimbledon now
when compared with previous years.
When a physically defective child attains the age of
sixteen years the orthopaedic surgeon makes a full report on
the case with special reference to the capacity for work. This
is forwarded to the Surrey Voluntary Association for the Care
of Cripples. Two physically defective children who attained
the age of sixteen years in 1938 were found suitable employment
by this Association.
The work relating to children below school age is indicated
in the section of the Annual Report dealing with the
Maternity and Child Welfare Department.
(i) Heart Disease and Rheumatism. Children suffering
from heart disease and rheumatism are sent to Certified
Special Schools for treatment when necessary.

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