Mysterious Toddler Limp
I have had several questions recently about a mysterious limp in toddlers. This limp usually does not seem to be related to injury and there is no bruising, swelling, or soreness. In many cases the mysterious toddler limp will resolve itself in two weeks. If you toddler continues to want to walk and run and shows improvement then there should be no cause for major concern. If the toddler is in good spirits this is also a good sign. If the limp does not improve and is accompanied by fever, grumpiness, or cough and continues to not improve immediately take the toddler to the doctor as this may be a sign of several serious medical conditions.
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Our 17 month old son began limping about 1 month after a sever viral infection (Vomiting, Diarhea) and hospitilization to replenish fluids. We immediately brought him into ER to be evaluated. Very difficult to come to a diagnosis. At it turns out…our son had had a stroke (most likely as a result of the infection)…and the stoke only affected the left leg.
We went from a suspected knee injury (internal bruise) to a toddler fracture, to hip effusion, to a torn miniscus in the knee, to muscular disorder, to reactive arthritis…and finally due to a particularly curious rheumatoid doctor…a quick unscheduled meeting with a neurologist who ordered a ct-scan. The scan picked up the stroke.
As it turns out, our son was quite lucky for having had a stroke…because it only impacted the lower left limb, and was a weakness so subtle that ER doctors and specialists did not suspect a neurological problem at all (good reflexes, good control of arms and hands, symetrical strength). There was just a slight weakness in the left leg…enough to keep our son from bearing full weight on it…and enough neurological damage to have him keeping his leg locked and straight while walking or sometimes when getting up or sitting down.
Our son still limps now at 19 months old (2+ months after the event)…however is slowly improving, and will hopefully gain full recovery through physio, play, and time.
Comment by Keith Moon :: June 18, 2008 @ 4:03 pmKeith,
Thank you for sharing your story. My heart and my prayers go out to you. It is definitely an indication that the limp began after the viral infection. I understand the uncertainty and the worry that you must have gone through. I am glad your sun is improving and hopefully he will make a full recovery.
Comment by FamilyHelpTree :: June 20, 2008 @ 9:47 pm