Elgin Elks offering free orthopedic screenings for children

Submitted by Elgin Elks

The Elgin Elks Lodge, in cooperation with the Illinois Elks Children’s Care Program and Sherman Hospital, will sponsor a free orthopedic diagnostic clinic from 2 to 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 7, 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, including free clinics four times a year for children, infant to age 21. All diagnostic services, including X-rays, MRIs and other tests are paid for by the Elks program. Financial assistance with treatment for a diagnosed problem may be available through the Elks charity.

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

The clinic is by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling the Elks 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 their major project for 83 years. Each year, the 73 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.