What does limping feel like with perthes disease?

The limp may be more obvious after running, sports, or a busy day and may improve with rest. A child may describe pain in the hip, groin, thigh, or knee rather than point directly to the hip. Reduced hip movement can make the stride shorter, and the child may avoid turning the leg or putting full weight through it. Symptoms can be subtle at first. A persistent or returning limp in a child deserves assessment because several hip, leg, and spinal conditions can produce similar changes.

Pause high-impact activities such as running and jumping until a clinician gives advice, and choose calm movement that does not increase pain. Do not dismiss a recurring limp as a habit. Arrange review with a paediatric or orthopaedic clinician, who may examine hip movement and walking and request imaging when appropriate. Keep a note of pain location, activity triggers, and morning stiffness.

Seek same-day medical advice for a child who cannot bear weight, has severe or rapidly worsening pain, fever, or appears very unwell. Urgent assessment is also needed after an injury or when the hip becomes markedly stiff and movement is difficult.

Ask: Could hip disease cause pain felt in the knee? Which activities are safe now? What changes in walking or movement should I report? How will you monitor hip movement over time?