The leg creases appear slightly asymmetrical, but abduction is normal.

Nov 28, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I noticed an asymmetry in the leg creases of the hind legs, but the degree of abduction of both legs is normal, with no other obvious abnormal symptoms. Is treatment required?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi

Asymmetrical leg creases usually manifest as differences in the number or location of leg creases. This can be a normal physiological phenomenon, especially when fat distribution in the legs is uneven, which can easily cause asymmetrical leg creases; however, both legs have normal function and abduction. Leg crease asymmetry may also be associated with certain medical conditions, such as congenital hip dislocation or hip dysplasia, which can cause symptoms like leg length discrepancy or restricted hip joint movement. However, if the patient has normal hip abduction and there is no mention of leg length discrepancy or restricted hip movement, the likelihood of physiological factors is greater.

It is recommended to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric orthopedic specialist to evaluate hip joint development through physical examination and necessary imaging studies. If signs of hip dysplasia are detected, early intervention is very important, and appropriate treatments such as using special braces or undergoing physical therapy may be implemented to promote normal hip joint development.