Blount’s disease care
What is a Blount’s disease?
Blount’s disease is a growth disorder of the shin bone (tibia) in which the lower leg turns inward, resembling a bow-legged condition.
How is Blount’s disease different from bowlegs?
Blount’s disease looks very similar to bowlegs. However, bowlegs can straighten as a child ages. The legs of children with Blount’s disease get worse as a child gets older.
Signs can include:
- Bowing below the knee in one or both legs
- Condition can worsen very quickly
A physical exam and X-rays are used to diagnose Blount’s disease.
Nonsurgical treatment options
Bracing usually is the first treatment option for children if they have severe bowing. If a patient does not respond to bracing or they are diagnosed at an older age, surgery is often recommended.
Surgical treatment options
- Cutting the shin bone to place it in the proper position
- Lengthening the shin bone
- Guided growth surgery
Your doctor will work with you to determine what surgery may be right for your child.
Follow-up
Most children have little to no problems with everyday activities after treatment.
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