Posted by Gary on January 19, 2004 at 05:09:17:
In Reply to: 3yr old boy just diagnosed with perethes disease posted by sarah on January 19, 2004 at 02:06:27:
Sarah, your friend should not rush into any treatment for her son. Her son is relatively young and most young children (those under six) do very well and recover without complication withiout surgery. There are certainly exceptions. She should first consult a pediatric orthopedic specialist who has experience in treating Perthes. It may be possible to simply observe the progress of the condition using physical therapy and home stretching exercises to maintain the range of motion of the joint while the bone heals.
Surgery may become necessary but it certainly is not the only approach nor is it the best in all cases. The Shrine Hospitals are an excellent resource for treatment for children with Perthes.