A genetic condition is one that happens when a gene changes. Some genetic conditions can be inherited (passed from parents to their children). Genes are sections of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) that ...

Forearm crutches are devices that give support to the forearms to help a person stand and walk. Are Forearm Crutches Right for My Child? Children ages 8 and older who can walk by themselves but have ...

It’s normal for people to masturbate (touch or rub their own genitals because they like the way it feels). Some people do it to relieve stress or tension. It’s nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed ...

Many things can lead to hearing loss, but often, no cause is found. Hearing loss is more likely if a child: Some hearing problems come on gradually after birth or show up later in life. If you are ...

Most blood tests take only a few minutes. They’re done at some doctor’s offices, and at community labs, diagnostic centers, and hospitals. A doctor, nurse, or phlebotomist (fleh-BOT-eh-mist, someone ...

What Is Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)? COVID-19 usually causes a milder infection in kids than in adults and older people. But some children have developed more serious ...

How much do you know about your digestive system? Find out by taking this quiz!

What Causes Osgood-Schlatter Disease? Osgood-Schlatter disease happens during the growth spurt of puberty. During a child's growth spurt, the bones, muscles, and tendons grow at different rates. In ...

What Is a Growth Plate? Growth plates are the areas of new bone growth in children and teens. They're made up of cartilage, a rubbery, flexible material (the nose, for instance, is made of cartilage).

Flat feet are feet that do not have an arch. The middle of the foot touches the ground. Feet with no arches is the main sign of flat feet. Sometimes, flat feet can cause foot, ankle, or knee pain.

Herd immunity is the idea that when many people are immune to (protected from) a contagious infection, it's harder for that infection to spread in a community. Antibody shots against specific germs ...

What Is a Breath-Holding Spell? A breath holding spell is when a child holds their breath, usually after being angry, frustrated, startled, or in pain. Sometimes the breath holding leads to the child ...