Particular findings are the adducted forefoot with a severe inward curvature of the metatarsals . Hands are short and broad and deviated because of the ulnar shortness. Non-progressive lumbar lordosis is present in all patients and it is probably related to flexion contractures of the hips. Cleft vertebral laminae are common in both cervical and lumbar spine. These curves usually onset during the first 2 years of life and they are not due to primary vertebral deformities.
Most authors suggest an aggressive orthotic treatment and early spine fusion.
Diastrophic dwarfs do not present atlo-axial instability or foramen magnum stenosis. In some cases their C-spine develops progressive kyphosis secondary to wedging of the lower cervical vertebrae. Progression of this deformity can lead to neurologic deficits and death unless the patient undergoes posterior or anterior and posterior spinal fusion. The whole spine should be carefully monitored since the first year of life. As previously mentioned, cleft laminae are common.