Limping in Children

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In my early years of practice as a chiropractor, I had a young teenager present with low back pain. On examination his hip movement was somewhat abnormal, and along with other examination findings xrays were required. This child had an abnormally shaped 'ball' or femoral head, which was the result of a slipped capital femoral epiphysis (a fracture of the growth plate of the femoral head). Upon inquiry it was noted that the child had a limp for a couple of weeks as a 3- or 4-year-old, that was fairly painless. I have come to realise that not many parents are aware that a limp that lasts for longer than a week can be the result of an injury or condition that requires medical intervention, so I have decided to write this blog.

Limping in children can be caused by many things and most often is the result of a minor injury. When caused through an injury, the pain and/or limp usually comes on suddenly, even if there is not an obvious injury. Most limps are caused by an injury to the muscles, tendons, ligaments or joints in the leg ranging from the hip down to the foot. Other common causes of limping in children can be due to infections or inflammatory (swelling) conditions. These are a bit more serious and require medical attention.

Younger children with a limp can be a bit more challenging as it can be difficult to determine the cause as they are often not able to communicate this to you. A limp in a younger child, although uncommon, can be a bit more serious. A limp that gradually comes on and not associated with an injury should be investigated as it may require treatment. If the limp is accompanied with a fever, then the cause may be an infection and medical attention is required. Any limp in a child that lasts longer than a week should be investigated by a healthcare professional.

If you are unsure of the cause of a limp in your child, especially young children, then seek the opinion of a healthcare professional.