A lower extremity limb difference is seen when the child either has a variation in the length, shape, or alignment of the legs, or when they are missing part or all (partial vs complete absence) of the leg. This can be either congenital (child is born this way/noted at birth) or acquired (result of injury/trauma or illness). Depending on the severity, the child may experience pain and/or limited mobility and difficulty participating in regular age-appropriate activities.

Our orthopedic specialists at Children’s Wisconsin treat all lower limb differences. Some examples of these include:

• Knock knee (genu valgum): Occur when the knees bend inward more than normal from the knees down. This is often normal in children ages 2 to 7, but in some cases can be caused by disease, injury or obesity.
• Bow legs (genu varum): Occur when the knees bend outward more than normal. Most of the time this is normal in young children up to the age of 2 or 3 years.
• Leg length differences: A difference in the length of one leg compared to the other, from either the thigh bone (femur) or the shin bone (tibia). This can be something someone is born with or occurs following an injury to a growing area of a bone called a growth plate.

Lower extremity limb differences may be diagnosed in utero/prenatally or after birth during growth & development. Our experts use a combination of history, physical exam and imaging tests for diagnosis of osteochondrosis. These tests include:

• CT
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
• X-Ray

There are other ways Children’s Wisconsin experts care for osteochondrosis including:

• Rest from activity: This means stopping or modifying any activity that stresses the affected body part, specifically from high impact activities.
• Bracing or casting: Your child may be fitted with a brace or cast to wear for a few weeks to months. This brace takes stress off the affected area, allowing symptoms to improve.
• Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening the muscles around the injured area, as well as improving overall body mechanics, flexibility and strength can help relieve symptoms due to these conditions. Your doctor may refer your child to a physical therapist (PT) for a course of physical therapy and exercises.
• Prosthesis: A piece of equipment that replaces a body part that is missing or no longer functioning
• Surgery: Some types of conditions may be treated with nonsurgical means, however in some cases surgery may need to be done. The type of surgery and recommendations vary based on the condition.

Expert pediatirc care: At Children’s Wisconsin, our Orthopedics Program specializes in all areas of orthopedic care, from upper extremity, trauma, spine and fracture care to sports medicine and concussion care. We treat all orthopedic conditions, from routine to serious. Kids are not just little adults, and require unique, individualized care for their developing little bodies. Our doctors are pediatric experts and every doctor specializes 100% in kids and teens.