Use of the Fascial Distortion Model to Evaluate a Limp in a Child

Pediatric limp is a relatively common condition in primary care and can be challenging to diagnose and manage. Common causes of painful pediatric limp include transient synovitis, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, and trauma. The authors present the case of an 11-year-old girl with a painful limp and anterior ankle pain of unclear origin. Osteopathic structural examination revealed a somatic dysfunction known as continuum distortion, 1 of 6 fascial alterations identified in the fascial distortion model. Myofascial release was applied, providing rapid, complete resolution of symptoms. This case demonstrates that osteopathic physicians may consider the fascial distortion model framework when identifying causes of pain in patients.