What should you know about leg cap Perthes disease?

Perthes disease is a childhood hip condition in which the rounded top of the thigh bone can weaken and change shape during a period of disrupted blood supply. A child may limp, avoid running, or report pain in the hip, groin, thigh, or knee. Hip stiffness can make it difficult to move the leg out to the side or rotate it. The symptoms can be subtle, so persistent Limping deserves assessment even when the child does not describe strong pain. A clinician uses examination and imaging to follow the hip’s shape and movement over time.

Care aims to preserve hip movement and keep the femoral head well positioned while the hip changes. The plan may include activity modification, pain relief advised for the child, mobility exercises, and regular imaging reviews. Paediatric Physiotherapy can support gentle range of motion, strength, and practical activity choices. Some children need a brace or other positioning support; others may be considered for an operation such as Osteotomy when hip shape, age, movement, or progression makes that appropriate. Follow the team’s limits on impact activities and attend planned reviews.

Arrange an appointment for a new or persistent limp, reduced hip movement, pain that wakes a child, or refusal to run or bear weight. Seek urgent assessment after an injury if the child cannot stand, has severe pain, fever, or appears acutely unwell. A sudden change in walking should be reported even if the child points to the knee rather than the hip, because hip problems can be felt farther down the leg.

Ask which movements and activities are safe, how often the hip needs review, what symptoms should prompt an earlier visit, and whether physiotherapy or positioning support is indicated. Ask how imaging will guide decisions and what would make surgical treatment worth discussing.