Elgin Elks hosting free orthopedic clinic for kids

The Elgin Elks Lodge, in cooperation with the Illinois Elks Children's Care Program and Sherman Hospital, will sponsor a free Orthopedic Diagnostic Clinic for children from 2 to 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 1 at Sherman Hospital, 1425 N. Randall Road, Elgin.

The clinic will be conducted by Dr. Vincent P. Cannestra of Orthopedic and Spine Surgery Associates. Cannestra has worked with the Elks Program for several years, conducting free clinics four times a year for children up to age 21. All diagnostic services, including X-rays, MRIs and other tests, are paid for by the Elks. Financial assistance with treatment for a diagnosed problem may be available through the Elks charity.

This clinic is especially for children who complain of frequently occurring leg, knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, back or wrist pain. The clinic is also for children, with diagnosed or suspected back curvature, or who seem very clumsy and/or fail frequently.

This clinic is by appointment only. Appointments may be made by calling the Elks program at (800) 272-0074, from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Family physicians are welcome to refer children to the clinic, but no referral is necessary to obtain an appointment.

The Illinois Elks have made working with physically challenged children as their major project for 82 Years. Each year, the 74 Lodges of the Fraternal Order raise approximately $500,000 to support their efforts throughout Illinois. The charity conducts no public fundraisers and does not seek or accept any government funding.