Causes of lameness in children
Viral infections and hip pain
According to Dr. R Kishore Kumar, Pediatrician and Neonatologist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bengaluru, India, viral infections can sometimes lead to muscle pain and inflammation, causing temporary lameness. and resolves spontaneously within 48 to 72 hours. However, if not detected and treated promptly, this condition can lead to joint damage in just a few days.
Injury
Sprains and strains: Active children often experience injuries such as sprains or strains, leading to pain, swelling, and limping.
Fractures: Even small fractures can cause a child to limp because he or she doesn't want to put weight on the affected leg.
Bruises: A direct impact or fall can cause deep bruising, leading to pain and causing your child to limp.
Inflammation
Transient synovitis : Often occurring after a viral infection, this condition causes inflammation of the hip joint, leading to limping.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA): A chronic condition that causes joint inflammation, stiffness, and limping, especially in the morning.
Developmental disorders
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease: This condition involves a temporary interruption of the blood supply to the hip bone, causing the bone to weaken and gradually break. The disease usually presents with painless lameness.
Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH): Improperly formed hip joints can lead to instability and lameness, especially in toddlers.
Nervous system disorders
Cerebral Palsy: A neurological disorder that affects muscle control and coordination, often leading to a limp or abnormal gait.
Spinal cord problems: Conditions such as tethered spinal cord syndrome or tumors can affect leg movement, leading to limping.
Symptoms to determine
- Pain: This is the most common symptom, it can be in the hips, knees, ankles or feet. Pain may get worse with activity and improve with rest.
Swelling: Inflammation or swelling around the affected joint or limb.
- Reduced range of motion: Difficulty fully moving the affected limb or stiffness.
- Unwillingness to bear weight: The child may refuse to walk or bear weight on the affected leg.
- Fever: Especially in cases of infection or inflammatory conditions.
Changes in walking: Noticeable changes in the way your child walks, such as walking on one leg, dragging one leg, or walking on tiptoes.
According to Dr. Kumar, cases such as continuous limping, severe pain or signs of infection such as fever, redness and swelling should be seen by a healthcare practitioner. Early detection and treatment will prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
