Paediatric Deformities
Paediatric deformities refer to structural or functional abnormalities that develop in children during growth and development. These conditions may involve the bones, joints, muscles, or soft tissues and can affect mobility, appearance, and overall quality of life. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent long-term complications and to promote normal growth.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of paediatric deformities vary depending on the type and severity. Common signs include abnormal posture, uneven limb length, difficulty in walking, pain in affected joints, or restricted movement. Visible deformities such as bowed legs, knock knees, clubfoot, spinal curvature, or abnormal chest shape may also be present. In some cases, children may tire easily during physical activity or experience recurrent falls. Parents may notice uneven shoe wear or delayed achievement of motor milestones, which could indicate an underlying musculoskeletal abnormality.
Causes:
Paediatric deformities can arise due to multiple factors. Congenital causes include genetic conditions, intrauterine malformations, or birth defects such as clubfoot or developmental dysplasia of the hip. Acquired deformities may result from trauma, infections affecting the bone or joints, nutritional deficiencies (such as rickets due to vitamin D deficiency), or neuromuscular disorders like cerebral palsy. Growth plate injuries and certain metabolic or endocrine disorders can also contribute to abnormal skeletal development. Environmental factors and poor posture during growth years may worsen existing deformities.
Treatments:
The treatment of paediatric deformities is individualized based on the child’s age, severity of the condition, and underlying cause. Non-surgical options include physiotherapy, corrective exercises, braces, splints, and orthotic devices to support alignment and improve mobility. Nutritional therapy, especially supplementation with calcium and vitamin D, plays a key role in conditions like rickets. In cases of neuromuscular involvement, multidisciplinary care with rehabilitation specialists is essential. Surgical intervention may be required for severe or progressive deformities, including corrective osteotomy, growth modulation procedures, or reconstructive surgeries to restore function and appearance. Early intervention generally results in better outcomes, minimizing complications such as chronic pain, arthritis, or impaired growth.