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If your child experiences hip problems they may have SCFE. It is more common in adolescents who are still growing. It is when the head of the thigh bone (femur) moves backwards of the neck of the bone. Our paediatric orthopaedic consultants can make a diagnosis and treat them.
SCFE can occur as a result of growth spurts, a traumatic fall or excessive weight issues. It is this movement or trauma that causes the top of femur to move backwards. Your child may complain of pain in the hip at first which develops gradually over time into stiffness and instability in the affected hip. It affects both boys and girls, from the ages of 10 to 16 years.
Once your child is referred to a paediatric orthopaedic consultant they can be assessed to determine whether surgery may be required. Diagnosis requires an X-ray and at The Portland Hospital, the team has a low radiation x-ray scanner.
If surgery is required, post procedure your child will be on crutches. Your child will benefit from physiotherapy as the exercises will help strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve the hip's range of motion. Your child will need to refrain from sports for a while whilst the hip joint and leg muscles regain strength.
Symptoms of SCFE include:
Your child's consultant will discuss their symptoms with you to help make a diagnosis. They will carry out a physical examination. This is to assess if pain is experienced in your child's hip motion. Your consultant will also observe if there gait is irregular (the way they walk). An X-ray will help determine whether a procedure is needed.
The aim of surgery is to prevent further slipping of the femoral head (the ball that rests on the hip socket). Procedure options include:
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.