I’m willing to bet the majority of the public has never heard of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and that’s exactly what this little blog is hoping to remedy. Commonly known as Perthes disease this condition typically affects boys age 4-8. It begins with the blood supply to the femoral head inexplicably stopping. Once the blood supply ends the femoral head begins to slowly die and misshapen.
As the contact between the femoral head and the acetabulum decreases, pain, limping and range restrictions increase. This is when parents will typically notice children complaining of pain with activity and seek medical attention.
After proper diagnostic imaging and orthopaedic assessment the normal course of treatment includes: physical therapy to maintain range of motion, activity restriction and bracing. All of these methods are in an effort to maintain mobility until proper blood supply does return. Understandably children who have suffered from Perthese disease are more likely to have arthritis later in life, at which point additional treatment may be necessary.
If you have any concerns regarding your child’s hip development and walking please call us to book an assessment with a Certified Pedorthist.
