Bone deformities in children are changes in the shape of the bones or the alignment of the limbs, feet or spine, which may be present from birth or appear as the child grows. Because a child's bones are still growing, they need assessment by a surgeon who treats pediatric orthopedic conditions.
Note: Some differences in the shape of the legs and feet are normal at certain stages of growth. Only an in-person examination can say whether they need monitoring or treatment.
Symptoms
- Clearly bowed legs, or knees that turn in or apart
- Feet that turn inward or outward when walking
- Flat feet with pain or tiredness, or a foot with an unusual shape from birth
- Legs of unequal length
- A limp or pain when walking
- A visible curve in the back or uneven shoulders
Causes
Causes vary, and a specific cause is not always found:
- Genetic factors or a family history
- The baby's position in the womb
- A disturbance in bone growth or the growth plates
- A lack of nutrients important for bone growth
- Earlier injuries that affected bone growth
- Nerve or muscle conditions
Diagnosis
The doctor asks about the child's development and any similar conditions in the family, then examines limb alignment, walking and joint movement. X-rays may be requested to assess the bones and limb alignment, with further tests when needed.
The examination separates normal variations of growth from deformities that need treatment, which takes experience with children's conditions.
Treatment options
Non-surgical treatment
Many cases are simply monitored as the child grows, and the doctor may suggest non-surgical measures when needed.
- Regular follow-up to watch how the shape changes with growth
- Exercises and physiotherapy
- Special shoes or inserts in some cases
- Braces or splints made for children
- Gradual casting for some foot deformities in infants
Surgical treatment
Surgery may be considered when a deformity is severe, is getting worse over time, or affects function and walking. The surgeon chooses the procedure and its timing with the child's growing bones in mind. To read about correction methods, see orthopedic correction.
Recovery and rehabilitation
Recovery varies from child to child and is set by the surgeon after assessment. Regular follow-up matters because the bones keep growing and the situation can change over time.
- Using the cast or brace as the doctor directs
- Caring for the wound or skin as instructed
- Physiotherapy to restore movement and strength
- A gradual return to activity and play
- Regular follow-up with examination and imaging as the child grows
When to see the doctor
Have your child seen by a pediatric orthopedic surgeon if you notice:
- A deformity that is getting worse
- A limp or ongoing pain
- A clear difference in leg length
- Difficulty walking, running or playing
- A limb that has looked different since birth
- A visible curve in the back