title: Neuropathic injuries to the lower extremities in children.
abstract: Neuropathic injuries of the lower extremities in children due to meningomyelocele, congenital indifference to pain, and peripheral nerve damage were studied in 10 patients. The injuries fell into four categories: (a) fractures of the metaphysis and diaphysis of long bones, (b) epiphyseal separation, (c) Charcot joints, and (d) soft-tissue ulceration. These injuries are often unrecognized; untreated, they can lead to severe disability. For patients with impaired sensation, radiographs should be obtained at any sign of localized soft-tissue swelling, warmth, or hyperemia, especially near a joint. Following diagnosis, immobilization of the limb will lead to prompt healing of fractures and epiphyseal separation.
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008591:Meningomyelocele / Q000150:complications; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D010146:Pain; D000699:Pain Insensitivity, Congenital / Q000150:complications; D059348:Peripheral Nerve Injuries; D011859:Radiography