Limb axis deformities

Limb axis deformities in children are a common orthopedic problem that can also occur in adolescents and adults. In addition to affecting aesthetics, these deformities lead to serious anatomical and functional disorders. Disorders of limb alignment (such as physiologic valgus and physiologic myelopathy) affect gait, and in the long term can cause degenerative changes in the joints, especially the knees. These problems require specialized evaluation and appropriate treatment, which is offered by pediatric orthopedics at Paley European Institute.

Physiologic scoliosis and valgus

Physiological myelopathy is a natural condition in newborns and infants, resulting from fetal positioning. Over time, at the age of 6-12 months after the onset of walking, it turns into physiological valgus, which in children stabilizes by the age of 7 when it reaches the typical adult angular value (about 6-7 degrees). If the limb axis abnormalities are not within physiological limits, medical or physiotherapeutic consultation is necessary.

Causes of limb axis deformities and unequal lower limb length in children and adolescents

Limb axis disorders can have a variety of causes, such as:

• Overweight and obesity;
• rickets;
• kidney disease;
• Asymmetrical blockage of growth cartilages after injuries;
• inflammation;
• Blount's disease.

Uneven lower limb length in children and adolescents is sometimes associated with:

• Palsy diseases (e.g., cerebral palsy, polio);
• Injuries to the bone growth zone (trauma, inflammation, cancerous tumor);
• congenital syndromes such as osteochondrodysplasia or underdevelopment of the proximal end of the femur, or fibular hemimelia and Silver-Russell syndrome;
• Hypertrophic and vascular syndromes.

Treatment of limb axis deformities in children and adolescents

The Paley European Institute uses the well-established Guided Growth method for limb axis correction during growth. It involves temporarily blocking growth cartilage using a minimally invasive technique. Implantation of the figure-eight plate is done through two small incisions, which minimizes the risk of scarring and adhesions. This approach allows correction of axial deformities and avoids the need for more invasive procedures in the future.

Limb axis deformities in adults

Limb axis deformity in adults and adolescents is often accompanied by degenerative changes, which can lead to significant deterioration of motor function. Uneven lower limb length in adolescents and adults forces compensatory mechanisms, increasing the risk of degeneration in the hip joints.

Causes of limb axis deformities in adults:

• Childhood growth disorders;
• Metabolic bone diseases;
• Severe osteoarthritis;
• Injuries or fractures.

Diagnosis and treatment of limb axis deformities in adults

Diagnosis is based on a clinical examination and full radiographs of the limbs. In cases of minor deformities, orthoses are used, while more advanced cases may require surgical procedures such as osteotomy, gradual limb lengthening or knee endoprosthesis.

We invite you to contact Paley European Institute, where we offer comprehensive treatment of limb axis deformities in adolescents, adults and children, including specialized care for conditions such as diastrophic dysplasia. Using modern techniques, our patients can enjoy improved limb function and quality of life.