Blount’s disease is a growth disorder of the shin bone (tibia) in which the legs become bow legged.
Causes
Blount’s disease occurs in young children and adolescents.
The inner part of the shin bone, just below the knee joint, fails to develop normally.
Blount’s disease is more common among children with an African background. It is also associated with obesity and early walking.
Symptoms
One or both of the legs are ‘bowed’
Often, it is painless.
Signs and tests
An x-ray of the knee and leg will confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
The treatment of Blount’s depends on the severity of the deformity and the age of your child.
Treatment options include:
- Bracing.
- Restricting the growth plate. The growth of the outer half of the shin bone can be slowed down, to allow the slow inner side to catch up.
- Bone cutting (osteotomy). Surgery may involve cutting the shin bone to realign it.