Paediatric and Adolescent Hip Conditions
What is Paediatric and Adolescent Hip Conditions?
A number of hip conditions specific to childhood and adolescence can cause hip pain, deformity and, if untreated, long term damage that may present later as early osteoarthritis in adulthood. Early recognition and referral are essential.
The main conditions include:
• Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH): a spectrum of abnormalities of the developing hip, from mild dysplasia to complete dislocation, typically identified in infancy.
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease: idiopathic avascular necrosis of the femoral head in children, most commonly seen between 4 and 10 years of age, more frequently in boys.
• Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE): a condition of adolescence in which the femoral head slips off the femoral neck through the growth plate, usually associated with rapid growth and increased body weight.
Symptoms of Paediatric and Adolescent Hip Conditions
Symptoms vary according to the condition and the age of the child but may include:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Hip arthritis usually develops over time rather than from a single cause. The most common reason is gradual wear of the joint cartilage with age. However, many people develop it earlier due to subtle issues with the shape of the hip, when the ball and socket don’t fit perfectly, it creates uneven pressure that slowly damages the joint. Previous injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, can also speed up this process. In some cases, genetics, inflammation, or increased load on the joint (including higher body weight or repetitive stress) contribute.
