If limp disappears when child is barefoot, suspect shoes or socks that are too tight, or a nail sticking through shoe. Veruccae (see Warts) can also cause limping. See First Aid for treatment of Sprains (pain and limping, leg and ankle look normal) and Splinters. For Fractures and Dislocations (limping and severe pain following injury to leg or hip, leg looks odd) contact Emergency Medical Services, give First Aid and give Arnica 30c every 15 minutes until help arrives.
Limping can also be a sign of Rheumatic Fever or Still's Disease (painful, red, swollen joints), osteomyelitis (pain and tenderness over a bone), Infective Arthritis (joint swelling and pain caused by an infection), congenital dislocation of the hip, especially if child has just learnt to walk, cerebral palsy (stiffness in and poor control of affected limb), anaphylactoid purpura, and even of Influenza. If child limps for more than two days without apparent reason, consult your doctor if there is no improvement in 48 hours. |