The main goal of treatment for transient synovitis of the hip in children is to decrease the pain and maintain hip range of motion. After assessing your child, our Physical Therapist at Atlas Physical Therapy may choose to use ice on the hip if it is in the acute phase of pain or may apply heat at a later phase to decrease inflammation and assist with pain control.
Next, some gentle exercises may be prescribed by your Physical Therapist to ensure that the hip maintains its range of motion and to assist in the healing process. These exercises should not cause pain. Many children will feel most comfortable if they keep the leg turned out during rest so they should be allowed to do this. Any position that is comfortable will help the healing process. Your Physical Therapist will answer any questions you have on the ‘do’s’ and ‘don’t’s’ regarding exercise and positioning while the hip is healing.
Painful weight bearing on the injured leg should be avoided in order to decrease pain and allow healing. Some patients may need crutches to avoid painful weight bearing. Before leaving the clinic your Physical Therapist will assess whether crutches should be used to ambulate for your child and, if needed, can adjust and fit the crutches. Generally, if the child cannot walk somewhat normally due to pain, then your Physical Therapist will suggest that crutches be prescribed.
Finally, our Physical Therapist in Congress Park, Denver Downtown, Central Park, and Highlands Area can advise on a return to activity schedule; vigorous physical activities such as running, jumping, and participating in sports activities should be avoided during the acute phase and will be added back as tolerated on the recommendation of your Physical Therapist.
Atlas Physical Therapy provides services for Physical Therapy in Congress Park, Denver Downtown, Central Park, and Highlands Area.