Perthes Disease Explained | Hip Disorder in Children | Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Introduction
Perthes Disease, medically known as Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease, is a childhood hip disorder that occurs when the blood supply to the femoral head (ball of the hip joint) is temporarily reduced.
Without adequate blood flow, the bone weakens, collapses, and gradually reshapes during healing. If not diagnosed early, it can lead to permanent hip deformity and early arthritis in adulthood.
Perthes Disease most commonly affects children between 4 to 10 years of age, especially boys.
Early diagnosis is the key to preserving hip function.
What Happens in Perthes Disease?
The condition progresses through stages:
Loss of blood supply to femoral head
Bone weakening and collapse
Gradual healing and reshaping
Possible deformity if untreated
The goal of treatment is to maintain the round shape of the hip joint during healing.
Causes of Perthes Disease
The exact cause remains unclear, but possible contributing factors include:
Temporary interruption of blood supply to hip bone
Genetic predisposition
Repeated minor trauma
Growth disturbances
Environmental and developmental influences
In most cases, the condition is not preventable — but early detection greatly improves outcomes.
Symptoms of Perthes Disease
Parents should look for:
Limping without significant injury
Hip, groin, thigh, or knee pain
Limited hip movement
Stiffness after activity
Difficulty running or playing
Reduced range of motion
⚠️ Important: Some children complain only of knee pain, which can delay correct diagnosis.
Persistent limping should never be ignored.
How Is Perthes Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes:
Detailed physical examination
X-rays of the hip joint
MRI in early or doubtful cases
MRI can detect early changes before X-rays show abnormalities.
Early imaging helps guide the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on:
Child’s age
Stage of disease
Severity of bone collapse
Hip joint range of motion
Non-Surgical Treatment (Common in Younger Children)
✔ Activity restriction
✔ Physiotherapy
✔ Anti-inflammatory medications
✔ Monitoring with periodic X-rays
Bracing or Casting
Used in selected cases to keep the femoral head well positioned in the socket.
Surgical Treatment
Recommended in severe deformity or in older children to:
Improve hip alignment
Maintain round femoral head
Prevent early arthritis
Long-Term Outlook
Children diagnosed early and treated appropriately often regain good hip function.
Delayed treatment may lead to:
Permanent hip deformity
Chronic pain
Early osteoarthritis
Need for hip replacement in adulthood
Final Message
Persistent limping or unexplained hip/knee pain in children should never be dismissed as “growing pain.”
Early orthopedic consultation ensures better hip development and prevents long-term complications.
Healthy childhood hips mean healthier adulthood mobility.
For Appointments:
Dr. Balaraju Naidu, Robotic Orthopedic Surgeon
ONUS Robotic Hospitals – Hyderabad
