Orthopaedic principles of limb deformity

One way to study the relationship between neuropathy and skeletal muscle problems is to consider central neuropathy as the primary lesion and changes in the skeletal muscle system as secondary changes. –Primary lesions are due to damage to the central nervous system, resulting in loss of autonomic control, abnormal balance, cone system dysfunction (spasticity) and extrapyramidal dysfunction (chorea, ataxia and dystonia). Neurosurgical treatment and pharmacological treatment are mainly directed at the release of spasticity. –Secondary problems refer to various deformities that occur during growth and development. They include muscle contractures and skeletal deformities (hip subluxation and total dislocation, femoral/tibial torsional deformities and foot deformities). Treatments include muscle distraction training, brace therapy, plaster, splinting and orthopedic surgery. Almost all children with hemiplegia are able to acquire independent (unaided) walking ability by about one and a half years of age. The aim of treatment for lower limb problems is to improve walking efficiency. Upper extremity problems tend to be more severe than lower extremity problems, and some children are able to improve their function and/or appearance with surgery. –Upper extremity deformities that are suitable for surgical treatment are mainly seen in children with hemiplegia. A thorough evaluation of the deformity is performed first, and the appropriate child is selected for surgical treatment. A significant proportion of children have sensory deficits and abnormal motor function (poor autonomic control, etc.). The degree of limitation of daily living ability is related to the sensitivity of the sensory nerves, the level of motor function, the contracture of the forearm (pronator teres) or the width of the first finger web gap, and the intensity of the child’s active motor motivation.