Question
Hi

My 23 month old son had irritable hip in February this year - it lasted around 2 weeks in total. Three doctors (including an orthopedic surgeon) saw him and agreed it was irritable hip. He had an xray done which came back clear and no concerns were raised.

He recovered completely. However, following a cough/cold which started two weeks ago he has developed a limp again. As last time, he is acting completely normal (including running, climbing etc) and has not had a fever at all. His joints are not red or swollen and he allows me to move his hips freely. His only symptom is stiffness when walking and he has been turning his leg out slightly when doing so. I took him to the GP two days ago and based on my son's behaviour he was not worried at all. He told me that given the clear xray 4.5 months ago and the fact that he recently had a viral illness, it is likely a recurrence of irritable hip. Today is day 4 and he is showing signs of improvement.

My question is - does irritable hip tend to recur? It has only been 4.5months since the last episode (although this has been his first illness since then) but should I press for further tests? I am paranoid that he has some form of Juvenile arthritis even though i cannot see any redness/swelling and he has not had fevers. Dr Google is only stressing me further with this one!

Thanks

Answer
Dear Louise,

This Orthopedic Chicago Podiatrist located in West Loop 60661,Roscoe Village 60618, Ukrainian Village 60622, Elmhurst 60126 & Bartlett 60103 says
Continue with rest. If there is no fever and he recovers in @10 days,he should be fine.
Only a small percent may have continued hip problems. If it recurrs again or persists, then follow up with them first & then  decide if a specialist is needed.
Hope this helps & Good Luck

Dr George Tsatsos, Svetlana Zats, Dr Mariano Rivera, Dr Massard & Dr KurtzhaChicago 60618 & 60622, Elmhurst 60126, Bartlett 60103 Podiatrists
Board Certified swimming or wearing a knee bin Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661

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