Hip impingement in children

What is hip impingement in children?

Hip impingement is a condition caused by abnormally shaped bones in the hip joint that can damage the cartilage, leading to pain, inflammation and limited range of motion.

Our physicians are leaders in both non-invasive therapies and minimally invasive treatments for hip impingement.

They can also provide top care for related injuries, such as:

• Acetabular labral (hip) tears

• Development dysplasia of the hip (DDH)

• Hip dysplasia in teens and young adults

• Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE)

Our goal is to diagnose hip impingement as early as possible, providing the best chance for a successful recovery and full return to activity, including sports.

What are the signs and symptoms of hip impingement in children?

Children with hip impingement may not show signs or symptoms of the condition initially.

When these worsen, they may include:

• Pain in the groin or hip after the hip has been flexed in sports or sitting

• Limited range of motion, particularly the inability to flex the hip beyond a right angle

• Stiffness

How is hip impingement in children diagnosed?

At the Andrews Institute, we have extensive experience diagnosing the full range of pediatric hip conditions, including hip impingement.

Diagnostic testing may include:

• Physical exam - Tests for pain, discomfort or limited range of motion in the hip

• CT (computed tomography) scan - Uses X-rays to make detailed images of the hip joint

• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan - Uses magnetic fields and radiowaves to take detailed pictures of the hip joint, checking for tears in the ligaments, tendons or cartilage

• X-ray - Uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to take detailed images of the bones of the injured hip joint, checking for any problems

How is hip impingement in children treated?

Our physicians offer treatment tailored to your child’s individual needs. We specialize in both non-surgical treatments for hip impingement and in minimally invasive surgery. If surgery is needed, we use a minimally invasive approach whenever possible.

Treatments

• Medication for pain and inflammation

• Activity modification

• Physical therapy (PT)

If symptoms continue to worsen, we may recommend minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery.