Bone deformities can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, especially when it comes to mobility. As described by an orthopedic specialist these deformities can range from mild structural changes to more severe conditions that may affect daily activities. Certain medical conditions, genetic factors, or injuries are responsible for bone deformities. Their early diagnosis and immediate treatment by an orthopedic specialist are essential to avoid complications in the future.
What Are Bone Deformities?
When the bone shape or its structure is abnormal it is a bone deformity. This deformed bone may affect one or more parts of the skeletal system. These irregularities can develop:
- During childhood,
- Due to congenital conditions,
- or later in life, as a result of trauma, disease, or wear and tear on the bones.
Causes of Bone Deformities
According to an orthopedic surgeon, there are many factors responsible for bone deformities such as:
- Many deformities, like osteogenesis imperfecta and clubfoot, are present at birth due to genetic factors.
- Conditions like rickets are caused by a lack of essential nutrients, such as vitamin D and calcium, which are necessary for healthy bone development.
- Fractures or other injuries that do not heal properly can lead to bone deformities over time. This is especially common in weight-bearing bones, like the legs.
- Conditions like Paget’s disease disrupt normal bone remodeling, leading to deformities.
- Over time, poor posture can lead to bone deformities, especially in the spine.
Common Types of Bone Deformities
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that gradually becomes an “S” or “C”-shaped in appearance. It often develops during childhood or adolescence but gets worse as a person ages. Scoliosis can:
- Affect balance and posture,
- Cause pain and stiffness, especially when standing or walking for long periods.
- Under severe cases can lead to a significant reduction in mobility, making simple movements difficult.
Bowlegs (Genu Varum)
Bowlegs is a condition where the legs curve outward at the knees while the ankles remain close together. As an orthopedic specialist describes, it’s common in young children but can persist into adulthood due to conditions like rickets or Blount’s disease. Adults with untreated bowlegs may experience pain in the knees and hips due to abnormal pressure distribution. Over time, this can lead to arthritis, making walking or running challenging.
Knock Knees (Genu Valgum)
Knock knees are the opposite of bowlegs, where the knees touch while the ankles are spaced apart. Like bowlegs, it is normal in young children but an orthopedic surgeon suggests it should be resolved by age 7. Persistent knock knees can be caused by underlying medical conditions like rickets or obesity. Knock knees can alter walking patterns, leading to joint pain and difficulty walking long distances. If untreated, it may contribute to the development of arthritis in the knees.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Brittle Bone Disease)
Osteogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disorder that affects the production of collagen, leading to fragile bones that fracture easily. People with this condition often have bones that are misshapen or shorter than usual due to repeated fractures. Frequent fractures and deformities limit movement and may require the use of assistive devices such as crutches or wheelchairs. The risk of injury during physical activities further reduces mobility.
Paget’s Disease of Bone
Paget’s disease involves abnormal bone remodeling, where old bone is replaced with new bone at an accelerated rate. This leads to enlarged and misshapen bones, commonly affecting the pelvis, spine, and legs. As bones become misshapen and weak, people with Paget’s disease often experience pain, especially in the hips and lower back. The deformities may lead to difficulties walking or standing and increase the likelihood of fractures.
Clubfoot (Talipes Equinovarus)
Clubfoot is a condition present at birth where one or both feet are twisted inward and downward, making walking difficult if left untreated. Without treatment, the affected person’s foot remains in this position, causing walking difficulties. Clubfoot makes walking difficult or impossible if untreated, as the person walks on the sides or tops of their feet. Early intervention can significantly improve mobility, but untreated cases can lead to lifelong walking problems.
Flatfoot (Pes Planus)
Flatfoot is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. It can be present at birth or develop later in life due to injury or overuse. While many people with flatfoot experience no symptoms, others may feel pain in their feet, legs, or lower back after long periods of walking or standing. This pain can reduce mobility and discourage physical activity.
Rickets
Rickets is a condition often caused by vitamin D deficiency, leading to soft and weak bones in children. The bones become deformed, especially in the legs, resulting in bow legs or knock knees. Bone weakness and deformities cause pain and difficulty walking. Children with severe rickets may struggle to run or engage in physical activities, and without treatment, the condition can lead to lifelong mobility issues.
Diagnosis and Treatment
An orthopedic specialist diagnoses bone deformities through a combination of physical examinations, medical history reviews, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. In some cases, genetic testing may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis.
Treatment plan
Bracing and orthotics
For milder deformities, especially in children, braces or orthotic devices can help correct alignment and support the affected bones.
Physical therapy
Exercise can strengthen muscles around the affected area, improving function and mobility.
Surgery
In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign bones, fix fractures, or insert metal rods or plates to provide stability.
Medications
In conditions like Paget’s disease, medications such as bisphosphonates may be used to slow down bone remodeling and reduce pain
Conclusion
Bone deformities leave an adverse effect on a patient’s mobility and quality of life. Get it treated immediately by consulting an orthopedic specialist because early diagnosis and treatment help manage these conditions and improve outcomes. By staying proactive with medical care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, individuals with bone deformities can enhance their mobility and lead fulfilling lives.
