Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

Which of the following statements is true about the resolution of symptoms in Legg-Calve-Perthes disease?

1. It resolves with skeletal maturity

2. It often requires surgical intervention

3. Symptoms improve with conservative measures

4. It is a one-time injury

The correct answer is: It often requires surgical intervention

The resolution of symptoms in Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a complex process tied to various factors, including the age of the child at diagnosis and the severity of the disease. The correct response highlights that symptoms of this condition often require surgical intervention. In Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, which is characterized by avascular necrosis of the femoral head, many children may initially be treated with conservative measures such as rest, activity modification, and physical therapy. However, some cases, particularly those with severe changes to the femoral head or when conservative measures fail to prevent significant deformity and disability, may present a need for surgical intervention. Surgical treatment can include procedures to decompress the hip joint, reorient the femoral head, or improve joint stability and alignment. The nature of the disease and the potential for long-term complications or joint integrity issues often necessitates close monitoring and sometimes surgical options to ensure optimal recovery and function as the child grows. Therefore, it's critical to recognize that while initial management may be conservative, surgery is often a necessary step in the management of more severe or persistent cases of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. In contrast, the idea that it resolves at skeletal maturity or that