Toxic Synovitis of the Hip in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Toxic synovitis of the hip
is swelling of your child's hip joint. The swelling usually develops after a viral infection or trauma and does not spread to other areas. Toxic synovitis of the hip can occur at any age but is most common in children 3 to 10 years old.
 |
Common signs and symptoms of toxic synovitis of the hip:
- Sudden pain in the hip, upper leg, or knee
- Pain that causes your child to limp when he or she walks
- Limited leg and hip motion
- Sitting or lying with the legs apart in an unusual position
- A fever of 100ºF (37.78ºC) or lower
Seek care immediately if:
- Your child's symptoms get worse.
- Your child cannot put any weight on his or her leg.
- Your child's fever is higher than 100ºF (37.8ºC), or as directed by a healthcare provider.
Call your child's doctor if:
- Your child's symptoms do not improve within 3 weeks on their own, or within 2 days with medicine.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Treatment
is usually not needed. Toxic synovitis may go away on its own within 3 weeks. The following can help you manage your child's condition:
- Rest and limited leg movement may help your child improve more quickly. Your child may also be told to keep weight off his or her leg until pain is reduced.
- Medicines may be needed to treat pain or a bacterial infection.
Follow up with your child's doctor within 2 days, or as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.