Blount’s Disease – Panasséa – Pediatric Therapy Centre in Malta

Understanding Blount’s Disease: Personalized Therapy for Confident Steps Forward

When your child is diagnosed with Blount’s Disease, every step matters—literally and figuratively. At Panasséa, we offer supportive, personalized therapy to promote strength, mobility, and confidence for children living with this growth disorder.

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What is Blount’s Disease?

Blount’s Disease is a growth disorder that affects the bones of the lower legs, specifically the tibia (shinbone), causing the legs to bow outward. It results from abnormal growth at the top of the tibia and often becomes more noticeable as a child begins to walk. The condition can affect one or both legs and tends to worsen over time without treatment.

There are two main types:

Infantile Blount’s Disease: Appears before age 4, often in toddlers learning to walk.
Adolescent Blount’s Disease: Appears later, during puberty or the teenage years, typically in children with higher body weight.

Common signs include:

Bowing of the legs (especially below the knees)
Difficulty walking or limping
Leg length differences
Knee pain or instability
Unusual gait (walking pattern)

Early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention are key to preventing long-term complications such as joint pain, arthritis, and difficulty with physical activity.

Quick Facts:

Most common in children aged 0–4 or in adolescence
More frequent in children who are overweight or started walking early
Often mistaken for normal bow-leggedness in toddlers
Responsive to bracing, physical therapy, and—in some cases—surgery

Why Choose Panasséa?

Specialized Therapy That Adapts to Your Child

Our team at Panasséa provides therapy that supports your child’s mobility, confidence, and quality of life—no matter their age or stage of development. We believe in early, consistent intervention to optimize movement and reduce discomfort.

Holistic Approach: We consider your child’s posture, gait, muscle strength, and daily needs.
Collaboration with Specialists: We work closely with orthopedic teams to support children before and after surgery or bracing.
Individualized Support Plans: No two cases are alike. We build therapy plans that match your child’s pace and progress.
Empowered Families: We coach caregivers to encourage healthy movement and help their child feel safe and strong.
Flexible Therapy Options: Choose in-clinic visits, home routines, or virtual support.

Services to help Blount’s Disease

Therapy Designed Around Your Child’s Needs

Physical Therapy (PT):
- Targets strength, balance, posture, and gait. We use fun, engaging exercises to improve walking patterns, reduce pain, and build endurance.
Occupational Therapy (OT):
- Helps your child remain active in daily life—at home, at school, and in play. We focus on energy conservation, coordination, and functional independence.
Post-Surgical Rehab:
- Tailored recovery plans for children who’ve undergone corrective surgery or use orthotic bracing. We help restore mobility and prevent complications.
Bracing Support and Adaptation:
- We guide families in bracing routines and integrate them into daily activities, while offering strategies to maintain mobility and comfort.
Parent & Caregiver Support:
- We offer training, tools, and encouragement to help you support your child with confidence—every step of the way.

Explore Our Services in Detail

Understanding the Journey

How We Work With You

Initial Consultation:
- We begin by learning your child’s history and current concerns. We’ll explain our approach and answer all your questions.
Comprehensive Evaluation:
- Our team will assess posture, walking mechanics, joint alignment, and muscle strength to build a therapy foundation.
Personalized Therapy Plan:
- A goal-oriented roadmap that adapts over time, helping your child progress at their own pace with a mix of in-person and at-home strategies.
Ongoing Care & Review:
- We schedule regular check-ins and collaborate with any orthopedic or medical specialists involved in your child’s care.

Common Questions:

Will my child outgrow Blount’s Disease?
Not usually. Unlike normal toddler bowing, Blount’s Disease often worsens and requires treatment to improve alignment.
Is surgery always necessary?
Not in every case. Bracing and therapy can be effective, especially when started early.
Can therapy help even after surgery?
Absolutely. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in regaining strength and coordination after surgical intervention.
Can my child still play sports?
Many children with Blount’s Disease remain active! With proper treatment and support, participation in physical activities is encouraged.

FAQ

Q: Is Blount’s Disease painful for children?
A: It can cause discomfort or fatigue in the legs, especially if untreated. Therapy and orthotics can help reduce pain.

Q: What causes Blount’s Disease?
A: The exact cause isn’t always known, but early walking, obesity, and genetic factors may contribute.

Q: What age should treatment begin?
A: As early as possible—especially if symptoms appear before age 4. Early treatment improves long-term outcomes.

Q: Is bracing difficult for children?
A: It can take time to adjust. We help families make bracing routines comfortable, consistent, and child-friendly.