Leg-Calve-Perthes Syndrome is a disorder of the hip joint in children. The causes of Perthes syndrome are unknown but it is believed that it initially begins when the blood flow to the top of the thigh bone (femur) is interrupted. This reduced blood supply causes the ball shaped bone structure to collapse and flatten.

Perthes Syndrome - Children Chiropractic The result is degeneration and deformity in the area and causes this causes inflammation and irritation. Perthes Syndrome can occur randomly during the life cycle, but it is most common in boys aged three to eleven years and has drastic implications for bone development and hip joint function.

Often Perthes Syndrome is misdiagnosed as a form of early-onset arthritis. The degeneration of the bone is similar to arthritis, however a correct diagnosis is vital for recovery.

Symptoms can include:

  • An occasional limp in the earlier stages
  • Knee pain
  • Worsening pain and limping as the disease progresses
  • Pain in the knee, thigh or groin when putting weight on the affected leg or moving the hip joint
  • Constant thigh pain
  • Reduced joint motion
  • Joint stiffness
  • Weakened thigh muscles (atrophy)
  • Eventually, the affected leg becomes shorter than the unaffected leg

Some sufferers of Perthes Syndrome require various orthopaedic devices for up to two years, while others undergo surgery to help the problem. Fortunately, not all patients need undertake surgical or bracing treatment. A chiropractic consultation can assess the extent of the problem and the appropriate course of action to be followed.

The Chiropractors treatment generally involves gentle exercises of the hip. This movement of the joint stimulates blood flow to the area and improves circulation. This increased blood circulation supplies fresh nutrients and oxygen into the capsule and also aids in removing waste products that build up from the bone degeneration. With an increased blood supply this can help to deliver components for new bone to grow and begin repairing the damaged area.

Children who have treatment for Perthes Syndrome under the age of three years have very good chances of recovery. For those children left undiagnosed and untreated, risk of permanent disability increases with age. To give your child the best chance of pain-free development, book them in for a chiropractic consultation today.


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