Elks will sponsor free kids' orthopedic clinic

The Elgin Elks Lodge, in cooperation with the Illinois Elks Crippled Children's Program and Sherman Hospital, will sponsor a free orthopedic diagnostic clinic for children on Monday at the hospital, 934 Center St., Elgin.

The clinic will be conducted from 2 to 5 p.m. by Dr. Vincent P. Cannestra of Orthopedic and Spine Surgery Associates. He has worked with the Elks program for several years, conducting free clinics four times a year for children, infants 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 program may be available through the Elks charity.

This clinic is especially for children with severe in-toeing or out-toeing, or who complain of frequently occurring leg, knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, back or wrist pain. The clinic is also for children diagnosed with, or suspected of having, back curvature, or who seem very clumsy or fall frequently.

The clinic is by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling the Elks program at (800) 272-0074 from 1 to 4 p.m. weekdays. 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 more than 78 years. Each year, the 77 lodges of the fraternal order raise about $500,000 to support their efforts throughout Illinois. The charity conducts no public fundraisers and does not seek or accept any government funding.