[Orthopedic aspects of Rett syndrome]

Rett syndrome is a degenerative neurological disorder with onset between 6 and 18 months of age. Severity of motor impairment is variable; some patients lose the ability to walk whereas others walk nearly normally. Orthopedic problems, which mainly involve the lower limbs and spine, can increase functional impairment and cause discomfort. Abnormal joint alignment in the lower limbs due to muscle contractures requires physiotherapy and orthopedic appliances. Surgery may be necessary, in particular to prevent dislocation of the hip or to correct talipes equinus. Scoliosis is common and unresponsive to conservative therapy and should be treated surgically if severe.