A Limping Child
Why limping happens
A limp is a change in how a child walks. It may appear suddenly or develop gradually, and it often reflects pain, stiffness, weakness, or a protective response to discomfort. In children, many limps are short-lived and related to minor injury or inflammation, but some require closer assessment to rule out more serious causes.
Age and context matter
The likely causes of a limp vary with age. Toddlers may limp after a minor fall they cannot describe clearly. School-aged children often develop limps related to overuse, growth-related issues, or transient inflammation after a viral illness. Adolescents may limp due to sports injuries or hip conditions that emerge during growth spurts. Understanding when the limp started and what was happening beforehand provides important clues.
Pain, pattern, and behaviour
How your child behaves is often more informative than the limp itself. A child who is playful, improving, and willing to bear weight is usually less concerning than a child who avoids standing, wakes at night with pain, or appears unwell. Whether the limp is constant or intermittent, improving or worsening, and present at rest or only with activity helps guide assessment.
Common causes seen in primary care
Many limps relate to minor trauma, muscle strain, joint irritation, or temporary inflammation following infection. Some children develop a limp without a clear injury, which may still resolve with rest and time. Recurrent limping can relate to biomechanics, footwear, activity load, or growth-related conditions. Less commonly, infection, inflammatory disease, or bone and joint problems may be involved.
When a limp needs urgent review
Prompt medical assessment is important if a child refuses to bear weight, has severe or worsening pain, develops fever, looks systemically unwell, or if the limp follows a significant injury. Night pain, swelling, redness, or a limp that does not improve over days also deserves review. In very young children, earlier assessment is appropriate because symptoms can change quickly.
How a GP approaches assessment
GPs assess limping by combining a careful history with observation of walking, joint movement, and general wellbeing. Examination often includes the hips, knees, ankles, and feet, even if pain seems localised elsewhere. Many cases are managed with reassurance, rest, and follow-up, while others require imaging, blood tests, or referral to clarify the cause.
Reassurance for families
Most limps in children are temporary and resolve without long-term problems. Knowing what features are reassuring — and which need review — helps families respond calmly rather than with unnecessary anxiety. Ongoing GP care provides continuity and ensures changes are picked up early if the limp does not follow a typical recovery pattern.
A limp is a sign, not a diagnosis. Looking at the whole child supports safe and timely decisions.
This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.