Limb deformity
Limb deformities that are left untreated may lead to long-term complications, writes Dr Ramesh Naidu Applanaidu
LIMB deformity can happen in the upper or lower limbs. One may be born with deformities (congenital) or acquire it as a result of an injury, accident, tumour or infection.
In such cases, arms or legs can appear bent, rotated or shortened while knees and ankles can also be deformed or bent.
Common deformities include bowlegs, knock knees and limb length discrepancies.
Deformities can disturb our functions and our appearance and cause cosmetic disturbances. At times, we are unable to perform routine chores or daily activities due to these deformities.
Deformities involving the lower limbs or legs are more prominent since it affects our walking pattern. A person with lower limb deformity walks with an abnormal gait or with a limp, especially if there is shortening.
This often leads to pain over the bones or joints. Some deformities may worsen over years, making the limbs or joints appear more bent and causing more disability.
If limb deformities are left untreated, they may lead to long-term complications. Complications such as chronic back pain, early osteoarthritis of nearby joints and chronic pain are among the possible long-term effects of untreated limb deformities.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of deformity as well as the age of the person. In some cases, the limb deformity corrects naturally, especially in children. However, some deformities can persist or become more severe.
Treatment options range from simple braces and exercises to special shoes if the deformity is mild or the limb length discrepancy is minimal. However, in more prominent deformities, surgical correction is needed.
In a patient with deformity, a thorough examination with measurements is done by the surgeon. Necessary imaging including X-rays will be carried out before any treatment or surgery is done.
Corrective surgery generally involves using either internal implants such as plates and nails or external implants. With proper planning and surgery, most deformities and shortening can be corrected. Arms or legs can be realigned and deformed joints can be straightened.
Limb length discrepancies are corrected by lengthening the affected bone to achieve near normal limbs. As a result, patients improve in cosmetic appearance, function and gait. This also reduces the incidents of possible longterm complications.