Irritable Hip Syndrome

Irritable hip, also known as acute transient synovitis, is a common disorder of childhood characterized by hip pain and limping. The term transient means that it does not last long. It usually occurs before puberty and affects only one hip. Boys aged between 4 to 10 years are most often affected.

Irritable hip is a common childhood condition that causes symptoms such as hip pain and limping. Doctors sometimes refer to irritable hip as transient or toxic synovitis. Hip pain isn’t usually severe, but your child may be reluctant to place weight on the affected leg.

Signs and symptoms of Irritable Hip Syndrome

>>>  Hip pain

>>>  Limping

>>>  Pain, which may spread to the groin, thigh, and knee areas

>>>  Abnormal crawling

>>>  Abnormal crying

>>>  Slight fever

Causes of an Irritable Hip

The exact cause of an irritable hip is unknown. But in some cases, the condition can occur because of viral infection (upper respiratory tract), a fall or injury. An irritable hip can also occur because of Perthes disease, a condition where the head of the thighbone deteriorates because of poor blood supply.

Is it serious?

As a parent, it can be very worrying if your child is diagnosed with irritable hip and is struggling to walk. However, the condition is usually short-lived.

Most cases don’t require specific treatment, because the pain usually passes within two weeks.

A small number of children with irritable hip go on to have further episodes. However, these episodes usually become less frequent and eventually stop when the child is older.

Recovery

Ibuprofen, which is available over the counter, can be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Your child should also rest the affected leg until symptoms have passed. Massaging the affected hip and applying heat may also help to reduce your child’s hip pain. It usually takes a couple of weeks to recover from irritable hip, although your GP may recommend that your child does not play sport or take part in any strenuous activities for at least another two weeks following treatment. This is to reduce the chances of irritable hip returning.

Swimming is a good way to strengthen the joint and get it moving again. A follow-up appointment may be needed up to six months later. This is to rule out other hip conditions that can also cause pain, stiffness and a limp. Hip fractures can be surgically treated with external fixation, intramedullary fixation, or by using plates and screws.