Irritable hip

Introduction

Irritable hip is a common childhood condition that causes symptoms such as hip pain and limping.

Doctors sometimes refer to irritablehipas transient or toxic synovitis.

Hip pain isn't usually severe, butyour child may be reluctant to place weight on the affected leg.

Occasionally, an irritable hip may also cause:

pain in the knee or thigh
restricted movement in one ofthe hip joints
a slightly higher temperature than normala normal temperature is around 37C (98.6F)

In younger children who are unable to speak, the only noticeable symptom may becrying at night.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 24 Nov 2016

Articles for irritable hip

Introduction

Irritable hip, also known as transient or toxic synovitis, is a common childhood condition that causes symptoms such as hip pain and limping.

When to see your GP

Although irritable hip is usually a mild condition, you should take your child to seeyour GP if you are concerned about their hips,so that a diagnosis can be confirmed. This is because irritable hip

What causes irritable hip?

The conditiondevelops when the lining that covers the hip joint (the synovial membrane) becomes irritated and inflamed, although the cause of inflammation is unclear. Some cases of irritable hip occu

Who is affected?

Irritable hip can affect boys and girls of any age, but is most common between the age of four and10 years old. The condition affects twice as many boys than girls.

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 treatmen

Recovery

Ibuprofen, which is available over the counter, can be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.Your childshould also rest the affected leg until symptoms have passed. Massaging the affected hip

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