Legg Calve Perthes Disease
About Legg Calve Perthes Disease
A gradual weakening of the head of the femur. The femur is the long bone of the upper leg that connects the hip and the knee. The head or ball of the femur and the pelvis make up the hip joint. In this disorder the ball of the femur loses its blood supply causing the ball of the femur to die. It usually affects only one hip, but both hip joints can be involved. It occurs most frequently in children between the ages of 4 and 12. It is more common in boys. The cause of this disorder is not known.Symptoms
Limping (often without pain), knee pain, persistent thigh or groin pain, weakness and wasting of muscles in the upper thigh, shortening of one leg, hip stiffness, decreased range of motion of the hip.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Observation of the limp is an important part of the examination. A hip X-ray or pelvis X-ray may show signs of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. An MRI may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), MRI, X-ray.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy depends on the extent of the disease and the severity of the symptoms. Treatment may include: rest, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), acetaminophen (Tylenol), physical therapy and night time traction. Surgery is performed for persistent or severe symptoms and may involve reshaping of the pelvis and/or hip replacement.Medical specialties
Orthopedic Surgery · Pediatrics
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Legg Calve Perthes Disease.