Toddler limping???

[BellyBean]

So my 17 month old DD started limping Wednesday evening.  I am a SAHM and didn't see her fall or injure herself at all.  The only time she isn't right next to me is when she is napping.

I guess I have 2 questions...

1) Do you have any experience with a toddler that suddenly started limping?  What caused it?

2) Is there an easy way that I can tell which leg hurts (limps kind of confuse me).  We have a Dr. appointment tomorrow, but they need to know which leg before we get there in case we need x-rays.  I know this sounds silly, but I really can't tell.

Thanks for your help.

[pbjmama]

1) Jumped off the couch but only cried for a second, turned out to be a fracture in the foot

2) Ask the child/the non weight bearing leg is usually the one injured.

[sapphire_chan]

I hope it's something very mild!

[BellyBean]

We just got back from the doctor and they ended up taking x-rays of both legs...no fractures (which is good news I guess) but they aren't sure what is causing the limp.  They are having us monitor it for a week, so I hope it just gets better on it's own.  I hate not knowing what's wrong with my baby :(

[sapphire_chan]

Totally obvious, but it would be awful if you didn't check this, have you checked for splinters, stuff in the shoes, binding underpants?

A quick Google search suggests:

sprain

virus (e.g. a cold) that's currently affecting the joint

pretending to be someone who limps (example was the kid wanted to be like their awesome uncle)

[BellyBean]

Haha, I love the idea of imitation!  She does actually imitate me if we are playing (like running in place, or "monster" walk).  I don't think we know, or have seen, anyone with a limp though.  I might have to keep a closer look out :)

You have our exact train of thought.  First it was take off her shoes - still limping, then take off her socks (thoroughly check feet) -still limping, then take off her pants -still limping, then take off her diaper - still limping. 

I hope it's just a virus, I haven't heard of that happening until today.  I think that's why the doctor is having us wait a week before coming back.  Really hoping this resolves on it's own, they mentioned a lot of "scary" diagnostic testing that could be necessary.

[sapphire_chan]

And a mild sprain could make it uncomfortable to walk normally while not having any readily apparent signs.

[MusicianDad]

Originally Posted by sapphire_chan 

And a mild sprain could make it uncomfortable to walk normally while not having any readily apparent signs.

That, and they can happen fairly easily as well. Like, stepping wrong off a step or curb.

Or she could have pulled a muscle.

[BellyBean]

Thanks for all the suggestions!

I think I'll look up more information on sprains/pulled muscles.  Maybe there is something I can do to help it heal faster.