Does paediatric physiotherapy treat Perthes disease?

Perthes disease, also called Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, affects the developing ball of the hip joint. Changes in the hip can cause a limp, hip or groin discomfort, or pain felt around the thigh or knee. During care, the hip may need protection from impact or positions that increase pressure. A paediatric physiotherapist checks range of movement, muscle strength, walking pattern and everyday function, then works within the instructions from the orthopaedic team. Physiotherapy supports the joint; it does not replace specialist monitoring.

Treatment can include gentle hip movement, carefully selected strengthening, positioning advice and ways to manage school, stairs and play. If impact is restricted, the therapist can suggest safer alternatives that preserve participation without overloading the hip. Do not force a stiff or painful hip and do not add exercises from an online programme without checking the plan. Keep appointments with the treating team so changes in movement or symptoms are reviewed.

Contact the clinical team promptly for increasing limp, new or worsening hip pain, loss of movement, night pain or difficulty bearing weight. Urgent assessment is appropriate after a significant fall, when the child cannot walk, or when fever accompanies hip pain. A sudden change may need examination rather than a routine exercise adjustment.

Ask which hip positions and activities are safe, whether weight-bearing needs limits, how progress will be checked, and which symptoms should trigger an earlier orthopaedic review.