Hip pain in children (irritable hip)

A condition called irritable hip is the most common cause of hip pain in children. This is where the hip joint becomes sore and inflamed.

Irritable hip can be painful, but it's not usually serious and often gets better by itself.

Other possible causes of hip pain in children include:

• an infected hip joint (septic arthritis)
• an injury like a broken bone
• a problem with the hip bones and blood supply to the hip joint (Perthes' disease)

These other causes are less common but more serious.

To find out what's causing your child's hip pain, a doctor or nurse may:

• look at and feel your child's hip, leg or knee
• try gently moving the leg in different directions
• ask about any recent injuries or illnesses
• arrange an X-ray

Sometimes a blood test or other scans may also be done to confirm it's nothing serious.

Irritable hip usually gets better in 1 or 2 weeks and does not cause lasting problems.

If your child has irritable hip, you can usually look after them at home.

• make sure they rest their leg until they are feeling better – keep them off nursery or school until they have recovered

• give them ibuprofen for children or paracetamol for children for their pain

• attend any follow-up appointments recommended by your doctor or nurse

• do not let them do any activities that could put a lot of strain on their hip for at least 2 weeks – they can gradually return to their normal activities once they're feeling better (swimming is a good way to get the joint moving again)

The most common cause of hip pain in children is a condition called irritable hip. Less common causes include an infection or a broken bone.

To find out what's causing your child's hip pain, a doctor or nurse may examine their hip, leg or knee. Blood tests, X-ray or scans may also be done.

If your child has irritable hip, it will usually get better on its own. Rest and painkillers can help until they're feeling better.