What should you know about slipped capital femoral epiphysis?

The capital femoral epiphysis is the rounded upper end of the thigh bone where it meets the hip. During growth, the plate beneath it can weaken and allow the head of the bone to shift. A child or teenager may report hip, groin, thigh, or even knee pain. Limping, reduced hip rotation, and one leg resting turned outward can also occur. Knee pain does not rule out a hip problem, so the hip must be examined.

Stop running, jumping, and sports, and do not let the child walk on the affected leg until assessed. Arrange prompt orthopaedic care, even if the pain seems mild or comes and goes. Assessment commonly includes an examination and hip imaging. Treatment is usually surgical stabilisation to hold the growth-plate area in position and prevent further slipping; the treating team will explain the procedure, mobility restrictions, and care of the other hip.

Seek urgent medical help if a child suddenly cannot stand, has severe hip or thigh pain, or develops pain after a minor twist. New numbness, marked swelling, fever, or a visibly shortened or rotated leg also requires urgent attention. Do not test the leg by asking the child to walk. Early evaluation matters because continued weight-bearing can worsen displacement.

Could the hip be causing the knee or thigh pain? Should the other hip be assessed? How long must weight-bearing be limited? What warning signs should we watch for after treatment, and when can school or sport restart?