A descriptive system for lower extremity evaluation in children: data for the newborn infant

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Orthopedics
• Neonatology

Background:

• Assessing lower extremity alignment in infants is crucial for early detection of developmental or congenital conditions.
• Standardized examination methods are needed for reliable pediatric orthopedic assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an efficient and practical system for evaluating the lower extremities in newborn infants and children.
• To establish standard measurements for newborn lower extremity alignment.

Main Methods:

• Measurements of hip rotation and abduction in a supine position.
• Foot positioning in passive correction or induced weight-bearing to assess tibia, forefoot, and hindfoot alignment.
• Examination of thirty-six newborn infants to establish normative data.

Main Results:

• Established standard measurements for newborn lower extremities.
• Identified statistically significant sex-based differences in hip abduction and rotation during extension.
• Demonstrated the utility of the method for routine pediatric evaluations.

Conclusions:

• The presented system offers an efficient and practical approach for routine lower extremity examination in infants and children.
• This method provides valuable normative data for newborn lower limb alignment.
• It supports early identification and management of pediatric orthopedic conditions.