ORTHOPEDIC PROBLEMS IN PATIENTS WITH RETTSYNDROME

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