Blount’s disease is a pediatric condition affecting the growth plate around the knees. This disease causes the growth plate near the inside of the knee to slow down or stop making new bone. While this happens, the plate on the outside of the knee continues to grow at a normal rate. This results in a bowlegged appearance in one or both of a child’s legs.
There are two types of Blount’s disease. Infantile Blount’s disease appears between birth and 3 years old. It is usually bilateral—occurring in both legs. The deformity is in the tibia (shin bone) only. Adolescent Blount’s disease occurs in children 10 years and older. It usually affects one side, with the deformity occurring in both the thigh bone and tibia.
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What are the signs and symptoms of Blount’s disease?
- Bowing of one or both legs (a condition known as genu varum)
- May cause trouble walking
- Possible knee pain that worsens with activity (see in pre-teens and teens)
What causes Blount’s disease?
The exact cause of Blount’s disease is unknown. While the exact cause is unknown, there are several risk factors:
- Obesity
- Early walking
- Possible genetic component
How is Blount’s disease diagnosed?
- Physical exam
- X-rays
How is Blount’s disease treated?
Treatment depends on the extent of your child’s condition. For young patients with infantile Blount’s disease, bracing can be effective. Bracing may help guide the legs into a straighter position as your child grows.
Your child’s doctor may recommend surgery if bracing is ineffective. Doctors may also recommend surgery for severe deformities. Surgical treatment options include an osteotomy or hemiepiphysiodesis.
An osteotomy involves cutting and realigning the bone. This procedure usually corrects the deformity immediately. A hemiepiphysiodesis corrects the deformity over time. Known as guided growth, this procedure gradually corrects deformity.
Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan to treat your child’s condition.