Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, also known as Perthes disease or avascular necrosis of the femoral head, is a childhood condition that affects the hip joint. It occurs when the blood supply to the femoral head (the rounded end of the thigh bone that fits into the hip socket) is temporarily disrupted, leading to the death of bone cells. This can result in various symptoms and functional limitations. While the severity and progression of symptoms can vary from person to person, there are several common signs to look out for:
One of the primary symptoms of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is hip or groin pain. The pain may initially be mild and intermittent, but it can gradually worsen over time. The discomfort is typically felt deep within the hip joint and may radiate to the groin, thigh, or knee. The pain may be aggravated by physical activity or prolonged periods of standing or walking.
Children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease often develop a limp or start favoring one leg. This is a natural response to the pain and stiffness in the affected hip joint. The limp may be more noticeable after periods of rest or upon waking up in the morning. Over time, the limp may become more pronounced as the disease progresses.
Another common symptom is a limited range of motion in the hip joint. Children may experience stiffness, reduced flexibility, and difficulty performing certain movements. Activities that require hip rotation, such as crossing the legs or tying shoelaces, may become challenging. The affected hip may also feel unstable or give a sensation of catching or locking.
As the disease progresses, muscle atrophy or wasting may occur in the affected leg. This is due to reduced use of the muscles surrounding the hip joint. The affected leg may appear thinner or weaker compared to the unaffected leg. Muscle weakness can further contribute to difficulties with walking, running, or participating in physical activities.
In some cases, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease can lead to leg length discrepancy. As the femoral head collapses and reshapes, it can cause the affected leg to become shorter than the unaffected leg. This may result in an uneven gait and further contribute to limping or favoring one leg.
Children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease may experience joint stiffness and inflammation. The hip joint may feel stiff, especially after periods of rest or in the morning. Inflammation can cause swelling, warmth, and tenderness around the hip area. These symptoms can limit mobility and increase discomfort.
As the disease progresses, changes in the walking pattern may become more noticeable. Children may adopt an antalgic gait, which involves a shortened stance phase on the affected leg to minimize pain. This altered walking pattern can lead to further muscle imbalances and compensatory movements in other parts of the body.
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early detection and intervention can help manage symptoms, preserve hip function, and prevent long-term complications.