Question

A 6-year-old is diagnosed with Legg-Calve Perthes disease of the right femur. An important part of the child's care includes instructing the parents: A. To increase the amount of dietary protein B. About exercises to strengthen affected muscles C. About relaxation exercises to minimize pain in the joints D. To prevent weight bearing on the affected leg

Short answer

Answer: The most important part of the child's care for Legg-Calve Perthes disease is to prevent weight-bearing on the affected leg to allow proper healing of the femur head and to minimize pain and complications.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Legg-Calve Perthes disease

Legg-Calve Perthes disease is a childhood condition that affects the hip joint. It occurs when the blood supply to the round head of the femur (thighbone) is temporarily disrupted, which can lead to a weakening and collapse of the bone. The main goal of treatment is to reduce pain and to maintain a good range of motion in the hip joint.

Evaluate instruction A

Increasing dietary protein can be beneficial for overall health and tissue repair. However, in the case of Legg-Calve Perthes disease, the focus should be on joint care and reducing weight-bearing on the affected leg. Thus, instruction A may be helpful but is not the primary focus of care.

Evaluate instruction B

Performing exercises to strengthen affected muscles can aid in the recovery of joint function and minimize the risk of long-term complications. While this is an essential element of treatment, it is not the main focus in the initial stages of the disease.

Evaluate instruction C

Relaxation exercises can alleviate pain and discomfort in affected joints. However, they do not directly address the primary issue of weight-bearing on the affected leg, and hence they are not the most critical aspect of care.

Evaluate instruction D

The prevention of weight-bearing on the affected leg is crucial in the management of Legg-Calve Perthes disease. Reducing pressure on the weakened femur head allows it to heal properly, preventing further damage, and reducing pain. This instruction should be the main focus of the child's care.

Conclusion

Based on our evaluation, the most important part of the child's care for Legg-Calve Perthes disease is instruction D, which is to prevent weight-bearing on the affected leg to allow proper healing of the femur head and to minimize pain and complications.

Key concepts

Childhood Orthopedic Conditions

Legg-Calve Perthes disease is one of many orthopedic conditions that can affect children. This condition specifically alters the normal development of the hip joint. It occurs when the blood supply to the ball part of the femur, known as the femoral head, is interrupted.
This leads to bone weakening and possible collapse of the hip structure. Recognizing this condition early is key in managing its effects effectively.
Children's bones are still growing and are more adaptable than adult bones. This makes treatment more effective but also crucial to ensure proper development.
Being aware of childhood orthopedic conditions is important for identifying similar issues early and seeking prompt medical attention.

Non-Weight Bearing Management

For a child with Legg-Calve Perthes disease, managing pressure on the affected leg is essential. Non-weight bearing management helps minimize stress on the healing femoral head.
This means the child will be advised to avoid putting weight on the affected leg.
Alternate methods, like crutches or a wheelchair, might be used to prevent weight-bearing during everyday activities.

• Reduces further damage to the weakened bone.
• Aims to relieve pain caused by stress on the joint.
• Promotes proper healing and recovery.

Following non-weight bearing guidelines can significantly impact the child's recovery process, allowing the bone to heal without further strain.

Hip Joint Care

Caring for the hip joint in a child with Legg-Calve Perthes disease focuses on supporting the joint during the healing process. Implementing certain practices can help in maintaining joint function and flexibility.
The key is to maintain a balance between rest and appropriate activities that support joint health.

• Appropriate exercises that do not exert the joint significantly can aid flexibility.
• Using supportive devices during rest can help maintain joint position.
• Monitoring pain levels to ensure effective treatment plans.

These strategies will foster better joint care, aiming to preserve a full range of motion for the child as they grow.

Pediatric Patient Education

Educating both the child and their family about Legg-Calve Perthes disease is vital. Understanding the condition enables better cooperation with treatment and helps in setting realistic expectations.
Parents play a key role in ensuring that the child follows proper medical guidelines like non-weight bearing practices.

• Explain the importance of rest and activity restrictions.
• Provide guidance on how to support the child emotionally and physically.
• Inform about potential long-term outcomes and the importance of follow-up care.

Adequate education empowers families by giving them the knowledge to actively participate in the child's recovery journey.