Jackson's legs

With twins, it is impossible not to compare them.  Over the past few months, Brian and I have noticed that Jackson's legs look a little different, and were definitely different than Lincoln's.  Our concern was the angle at which Jackson's legs come out from his knees.

So, on Monday before Thanksgiving, we took Jackson to see Dr. Korn, our pediatrician.  I kind of expected him to tell us we were crazy and paranoid, but he didn't.  He indicated that there is definitely a deformity, believed that at this time they usually don't treat it, but recommended that we see an orthopedic specialist at Children's Hospital.

I think this concerned both Brian and me a bit.  Because of all the therapy that Jackson went through with his neck and head, we called right away to get an appointment.  Luckily, they were able to see us on Wednesday before Thanksgiving.

Children's Hospital is great....but sometimes frustrating.  We waited almost an hour after our appointment time before we saw the doctor.  It is extremely difficult to entertain an almost 3 year old boy in a small room filled with medical equipment.  Just saying...especially with a germophobic husband.  However, when the doctor came in, he instantly put Jackson at ease (not an easy fete), and he earned my trust almost immediately. 

He took one look at Jackson's legs, and began telling us his thoughts.  He explained that "knock-knees" are actually fairly common among kids, and usually becomes apparent around the age of 3.  Jackson is a pretty classic case.  Although it was great for us to have Lincoln to compare Jackson's legs too, the doctor recommends against comparing them now that Jackson has been diagnosed. 

At this time, no treatment is needed.  We will just monitor Jackson over the next year.  If the angle of his legs remains the same, or gets better, no treatment will be needed.  However, if it worsens over the next year or two, he would need surgery.  The surgery would insert a plate in his knees to restrict growth on the one side, forcing his growth to correct the angle issue.  I laughed when the doctor was explaining this, as it was almost exactly like what we went through with his helmet - it restricted the growth of his head in the one area, forcing it to grow in the underdeveloped area. 

This was a huge relief for Brian and me.  Although he may need to have surgery to correct this in a few years, it's definitely not as bad as we had each imagined.  For the time being though, please say a few prayers for Jackson that the issue corrects itself.  We'll update everyone again next fall after our visit to Children's.