Perthes disease

Perthes' disease is a fairly common disease of childhood. It begins quite unnoticed and proceeds very slowly. Therefore, sometimes the disease is detected even when it is impossible to correct some of the consequences.

Characterized by Perthes disease in children by destruction of the head of the femur. The most common disease occurs in boys aged 6 to 10 years. Girls get sick less often. Among all diseases of the musculoskeletal system, this occurs very often - in 3% of cases.

Perthes disease. Causes

The exact causes of the disease have so far been little studied. Yes, and doctors say that it is impossible to pinpoint the factor that predisposes to the disease. However, the main cause is a violation of blood circulation in the joint. To him, in turn, can lead:

• Different kinds of infections and their complications,
• High stress on the joints. This is especially true if the body is weakened,
• Violations in the development of joints of hereditary nature,
• Injuries of the joints in the hip region,
• The presence of diseases associated with metabolism.

Perthes disease. Symptoms

The initial signs of the disease can be expressed very poorly. Appears slight lameness. However, it quickly disappears, and after a while appears again. Can suffer pain in the joints. True, they often give in the knee. Therefore, children complain of unpleasant sensations while walking in the knee joint.

Over time, the amount of muscle in the region of the hip decreases, and also incomplete flexion and extension of the joint is observed. Of course, with the observance of bed rest, such symptoms disappear. If untimely treatment is possible, the length of the limb will decrease.

As for the general condition of the child, it does not suffer at all. The temperature is always normal, there is no weakness, and the blood test will not show any changes in the body.

Course of the disease

If the disease is triggered, its duration may be of the order of 6 years. If it is timely to proceed to treatment, then with minimal consequences it is possible to overcome the disease in 2 years. The disease has several stages, which are clearly separated:

1. Necrosis, when the head of the femur is flattened and begins to gradually lose its habitual form.
2. Fracture. At this stage, the head is already flat and sealed.
3. The formation of small fragments of bone. During this period, bone even tends to stop in its growth. Sometimes even a dislocation happens.
4. Restore the structure. However, the bone head often remains deformed.
5. Effects. If untimely diagnosis and treatment of Perthes' disease develops arthrosis, which accompanies a person all his life.

Perthes disease. Diagnostics

Diagnosis at the earliest stages of the disease plays a major role in getting rid of the disease. Therefore, as soon as there is at least one sign of the disease, you need to immediately go to the orthopedist. Of course, procedures are prescribed that confirm the alleged diagnosis. Among the most effective - radiography, ultrasound and radiation diagnosis.

Perthes disease. Treatment

There are several ways to get rid of Perthes' disease. The first option is conservative. It assumes complete unloading of the child's lower limbs. To do this, you should first observe bed rest, and then resort to crutches and a special device called orthosis. If the patient experiences pain, then impose even a cast. At the same time, the patient takes fortifying medicines and vitamins, as well as means for improving blood circulation. A massage is mandatory, and then physical exercises are necessary.

When complications arise, one resorts to prompt intervention. However, with timely access to the doctor, the joint of the femur remains only slightly changed and does not interfere in the later life of the person.