Hip pain in children (irritable hip)

Hip pain in children is most often caused by a condition called irritable hip, which usually gets better on its own. But it should always be checked because it could be a sign of something serious.

Ask for an urgent GP appointment or go to A&E if your child:

• gets sudden pain in their hip, thigh or knee (hip problems can sometimes be felt in the thigh or knee)
• is limping or can't put any weight on 1 leg

They probably just have irritable hip (inflammation of the hip joint). This isn't serious and gets better by itself.

But they should be checked to rule out anything like a broken bone or infected joint (septic arthritis).

Find an A&E department

Treatment for irritable hip

Irritable hip normally gets better in 1 or 2 weeks and doesn't cause lasting problems.

You can usually look after your child at home. Sometimes they may need to stay in hospital for a few days if they're in a lot of pain.

While looking after your child at home: