Lower limb defects - what are the most common limb deformities?

Acquired defects of the lower limbs

The most commonly diagnosed postural defects in the lower extremities are valgus knees , flat feet and knock-knees, but these are not congenital. They usually result from perpetuated postural abnormalities and other environmental factors (such as limb injuries), including comorbidities.

Acquired defects of the lower limbs - treatment

Treatment of acquired lower limb defects depends on the cause of the defect and its severity. It can include physiotherapy, wearing special orthotics or orthoses, or surgical intervention, among others. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to avoiding more serious complications and improving quality of life.

Congenital malformations of the lower extremities

Congenital malformations of the lower extremities include, for example, congenital underdevelopment of the femur, or so-called femoral hypoplasia. The condition involves a deformation of the femur, or more precisely, an abnormal formation of the joint acetabulum or femoral head. As a result, the hip joint can be unstable and lead to further changes in the skeletal, muscular and ligamentous systems.

How soon can congenital hypoplasia of the femur be diagnosed?

Congenital hypoplasia of the femur is more common in girls than in boys, and can be diagnosed as early as in newborns during a medical examination performed in the first days of life. Symptoms depend on the severity of the condition and may include asymmetry of the skin folds of the thigh, apparent shortening of one lower limb, and in older children a "duck-like gait," reduced mobility at the hip joint and complaints of pain.

Congenital hypoplasia of the femur - treatment

Congenital Femoral Deficiency (CFD - Congenital Femoral Deficiency / PFFD - Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency), without the implementation of prompt treatment, can lead to disability. Femoral hypoplasia requires a holistic, individualized approach to the patient. The sooner comprehensive treatment is implemented, the better the prognosis for the patient. Femoral hypoplasia may require hip reconstructive surgery, femoral lengthening and soft tissue, including ligamentous, reconstruction, as well as rehabilitation tailored to the individual case. Proper management can realistically reduce the disproportion in limb length and affects the maintenance of the patient's comfort and independence.

Our specialties include pediatric orthopedics. We undertake comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as:

• - underdevelopment of the femur treatment,
• - Congenital underdevelopment of the radius bone,
• - limb axis disorders,
• - underdevelopment of the bones of the lower leg - fibular hemimelia and tibial hemimelia.

On our site you can also read the story of the treatment of a little patient diagnosed with congenital hypoplasia of the femur. We encourage you to check it out!