A limp is a type of asymmetric abnormality of the gait. Limping may be caused by pain, weakness, neuromuscular imbalance, or a skeletal deformity. The most common underlying cause of a painful limp is physical trauma; however, in the absence of trauma, other serious causes, such as septic arthritis, or slipped capital femoral epiphysis, may be present. The diagnostic approach involves ruling out potentially serious causes via the use of X-rays, blood tests and, potentially, joint aspiration. Initial treatment involves pain management. A limp is the presenting problem in about 4% of children who visit the emergency department.
Read more about Limp: Definition, Differential Diagnosis, Diagnostic Approach, Epidemiology
Famous quotes containing the word limp:
“America fears the unshaven legs, the unshaven men’s cheeks, the aroma of perspiration, and the limp prick. Above all it fears the limp prick.”
—Walter Abish (b. 1931)
“Don’t limp in front of the lame.”
—François Rabelais (1494–1553)
“If a man, cautious,
hides his limp,
Somebody has to limp it! Things
do it; the surroundings limp.
House walls get scars,
the car breaks down; matter, in drudgery, takes it up.”
—Robert Bly (b. 1926)