Malalignment and limb-length discrepancy often lead to early functional limitations and subsequently to discomfort and pain caused by unbalanced loading and excessive wear and tear of the joints.
Malaligned (malunited) fractures and pseudarthrosis (non-united fractures) lead to pain and functional limitation in daily activities.
In some cases, conservative measures can be used to achieve pain-free activity. In the case of complaints with a strong functional component, physical therapy can strengthen muscle groups and stabilize the affected joints and functional units.
Surgical correction and realignment should be considered if:
- conservative, nonsurgical, measures are not indicated or did not lead to improvement.
- surgical correction can prevent further damage to the joints and thereby prevent future arthritis and pain.
- the gait pattern and gait efficiency are severely impaired by malalignment or limb-length discrepancy.
Together we can define the optimum solution for correction of deformity, limb shortening, and malalignment.
For adult patients, I treat a specific and defined spectrum of conditions. I treat deformities, shortening, malunited fractures, and pseudarthrosis after fracture or infection or after previous failed surgery of the lower limbs and foot and ankle. Additionally, I treat clubfoot deformities and subsequent problems after clubfoot in adults.
For all other adult orthopedic problems, I can refer you to colleagues specialized in the respective fields.