Irritable Hip
What is an Irritable Hip?
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.
Symptoms of an Irritable Hip
A child with irritable hip will experience the following symptoms:
- 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.
Diagnosis of an Irritable Hip
The diagnosis of an irritable hip is made based on your child’s
symptoms and a physical examination. To rule out other possible causes
of your child’s symptoms, the following diagnostic tests may be ordered:
- X-rays: detect any problem with your child’s bone
- Blood tests: determine a bone or joint infection
- Ultrasound scan: creates an image of the affected hip joint and detects any fluid in the joint
Treatments for Irritable Hip
The treatment of an irritable hip includes medications and bed
rest. Painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are prescribed to
help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Your doctor may prescribe
some specific medications depending on the type of infection detected in
your child. Applying heat and massaging the affected hip may also help
in reducing hip pain. Swimming is a great exercise to strengthen
and regain the movement of the hip joint.