The history is one of an acute onset of hip pain and a limp, followed by knee pain and inability to weight bear.
Boys are affected more often than girls by about 2:1. The mean age at presentation is about 6 years with a range from two to twelve years. Both hips are affected equally but it is rare for more than one hip to be involved.
On examination, the affected leg tends to be held in the position of greatest ease, typically, one of flexion, abduction and slight external rotation. Movement is restricted especially extension and adduction which both increase intracapsular pressure.
The child is otherwise well.
Symptoms usually persist for 1-2 weeks then resolve spontaneously. Months may elapse between episodes.
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