700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posted by: Cynthia A. Gerhardt, PhD on Mar 30, 2026

When you hear the words clinical research, you might picture something scary or confusing. Many parents do. Clinical research is simply a way for medical providers and researchers to learn what treatments work best for children and adults. Our experts look at some common myths and set the record straight.

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Blog

Understanding Inguinal Hernias in Children: A Simple Guide for Parents

A groin bulge can be alarming—but inguinal hernias are common in children and highly treatable. Learn what causes them, what parents may notice, why repair is recommended, and the warning signs that mean you should seek emergency care.

A young athlete’s shoulder is shown with pink and blue kinesiology tape applied. A clinician gently guides the arm during a physical therapy session
Blog

Should Young Athletes Use Kinesiology Tape?
Kinesiology tape is everywhere in youth sports—but does it actually help? Learn what KT tape is used for, what the research says, when it’s not a good idea, and how to decide if it’s a safe, supportive option for your child’s aches or injuries.
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About this Blog

Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

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Latest Posts

Doctor examining x-ray

No More X-Ray Shields

Jan 21, 2021

If your child receives an X-ray at Nationwide Children’s Hospital after March 1, 2021, you’ll notice a difference. They won’t have to wear a shield, sometimes called a lead apron. Read More

Child's arm

Impetigo: What You Need to Know

Jan 13, 2021

Impetigo is common on the face, especially around the nose and mouth. It usually begins as small sores that are red and a little itchy. Read More

teenager talking to adult

10 Tips for Talking to Your Children about Opioids

Dec 21, 2020

The abuse of and addiction to opioid-based prescription drugs has skyrocketed in recent years and it’s imperative for parents to educate their children about the dangers of this serious national crisis. Read More

Teenager practicing physical therapy

Telehealth: Serving Patients From Afar

Dec 17, 2020

Physical therapists are always working to optimize their patients’ ability to move and improve their health. With the restrictions created by the global COVID-19 pandemic, this year they had to get creative. Telehealth was the answer to this problem. Read More

Mother and daughter washing their hands at kitchen sink

The Importance of Handwashing

Dec 10, 2020

We know the simple act of handwashing is a powerful way to protect ourselves from infection. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly two million young children die each year from illnesses that can be prevented by washing hands with soap and water. Read More

Medical professional wearing mask holding syringe

6 Things to Know About the COVID-19 Vaccine

Dec 09, 2020

Scientists have made an effective and safe vaccine to help fight COVID-19, save lives and help people return to normal life. Here's what you need to know.
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Little girl shrugging

Senna-Based Laxatives for Kids’ Constipation: Are They Safe?

Dec 08, 2020

Senna-based laxatives are commonly prescribed to children by pediatricians, pediatric gastroenterologists and pediatric surgeons to treat constipation. In recent years, however, parents have had growing concerns that senna is not safe. Read More

Little girl and dog

The Myth of the Hypoallergenic Dog

Nov 25, 2020

About two-thirds of homes in the United States have at least one pet, and most of these have dogs. In addition, 10-20% of all children and adults across the world are allergic to dogs. That means there are a lot of people that live with the very animal that can cause them misery. Read More