Weeks ago we noticed Seth walking with a limp. He was unable to point to any pain or injury so we let it ride a week. You know how active boys are - he could have fallen from the top of the playground and we never knew it. He's tough! After the week however it was not better so we got him in to see our regular Dr. After x-rays we were sent to see an orthopedic specialist - where we were August 17th.
The appointment itself went very well. The Dr. had no trouble with the diagnosis so at least we know what we are dealing with, for the most part. Seth was diagnosed with Perthes Disease. Here is a semi-comprehensive link for your reading pleasure: Medline Plus. Every site will tell you a bit different story but you get the main drift from this one.
Basically, we are at the beginning of what could be a long journey. Some children take six months to heal, some take two years. There is no proof as to what causes this disease, only much speculation, but the current theory of treatment is less is better. For now we will allow Seth to move as he is able and give him ibuprofen when the pain is too much to bare. At the end of September we go in for round two of x-rays and see where things are going. We are going to pray for much better than much worse!
In six weeks the x-rays will tell us if Seth is continuing to worsen and at what rate. Possibly an MRI if needed. The unfortunate thing here is that things often get much worse before getting better. The bone is dying and will degenerate to a point in which the body kicks in and starts to recreate the bone needed. If Seth is much worse a cast and crutches may be necessary to help protect from damage to the area. We pray against this possibility! Surgery is rarely recommended or necessary which is of some relief.
Right now Seth is still somewhat active. His run is more of a quick hobble but has not slowed him down as much as you might think. To slow down for him is unthinkable. At our last soccer practice on Monday he was in tears and not be able to "catch the coach". Something a month ago was no issue at all! He does feel pain, it even wakes him at night, and he is most stiff in the morning or after prolonged sitting. We have noticed that he no longer wants to go for walks to the park/library but will ride his bike as he can favor one leg and still be "fast" enough. It is very hard to watch our once overly active boy stumble and trip his way through the day!
We need your prayers that Seth will heal quickly. That his bone will get the signal to start rebuilding. That physical therapy will keep him moving and active, as much as possible in his current state, and protect him for further injury. We are praying that this will not be a long journey but a short one that is defined by God's touch of healing. You all know how active our boy loves to be. This is hard on him and changing his behavior some too. Thus patience for all of us would also be a great prayer need!
1 comment:
I completely understand what you are referring to, about it being hard to watch your active little boy not act like himself. If I have learned anything I know it is that God can and will heal all His children. It sounds like Seth is in good hands, spiritually and physically. The Dangerfields will add him to our prayers for quick recovery, little pain and lots of patience.
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