Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE): A Hip Condition in Growing Children

April 13, 2026

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE): A Hip Condition in Growing Children

Verified By
KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
13 April, 2026

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE): A Hip Condition in Growing Children

A slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a pediatric hip disorder that affects the epiphysis or ball like head of the thigh bone- as your teenager grows, the softer bone that grows newly can weaken how the femur is attached to the hip joint and it can slip out of alignment. The top part of the femur is more likely to slip out at such periods of high bone growth related activity and affected teens will require slipped capital femoral epiphysis surgery. So, if your teen or child has severe hip pain or is not able to walk normally, call an orthopedic pediatric specialist at KIMS Sunshine Hospital today!

Causes for SCFE To Occur

Some well known causes include-

Being overweight or obese in childhood.
Having huge growth spurts.
Puberty can cause massive hormonal fluctuations – which can in turn impact growth and strength of bones.
If your child has an injury that is actually a blow to their hips.
If there is hip dysplasia.
If someone in your family has had SCFE before- there is a genetic component to this condition and it can be inherited in some cases.

SCFE is more common in males than females.

Symptoms of SCFE

This condition tends to develop over time and can affect one hip first and then the other. So, you may notice them

Having hip pain when walking or moving.
Limping when walking.
Extreme stiffness that gets worse when walking.
Not being able to put weight on the affected leg.
The hip or leg is turned outward or the affected leg looks shorter than the other.

If your child or teenager has these symptoms, please call an orthopedic pediatric specialist at KIMS Sunshine Hospital today!

SCFE Diagnosis And Management

Doctors will normally ask you and your child for a detailed medical history and note down relevant symptoms. They will follow up with x-rays or an MRI scan, to confirm that the epiphysis has slipped out of its place.

Treatment is absolutely necessary- and children or teens will require hip pinning surgery. These are the two techniques that are normally used-

In-situ fixation- Arthroscopy is performed, where pins are used to keep the femur in place in the hip joint.
Open reduction and internal fixation – if your child has unstable SCE, then doctors will need to physically move the femoral head back into place.

Rehab and physiotherapy are necessary for the first 3 months after surgery. Crutches will be used when they walk, so that weight does not fall on the hips. Once the hp has healed well, they will be given specific exercises which can help children improve mobility, flexibility and joint function.

Conclusion

SCFE can affect very young children who have hip dysplasia or teens who have had sudden growth spurts. SCFE needs surgery, as self correction or healing is very rare and almost never happens. Early treatment for SCFE is very necessary- so there is no long term damage to the hip joint. Unstable SCFE can be more complicated and lead to hip arthritis in some cases- and then your child will need hip replacement surgery.

So, listen to your child or teen when they complain of pain- as it may not just be passing by. Come to KIMS Sunshine Hospital for the best child hip pain treatment. Call us today if you have any concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should a child with hip pain be evaluated for SCFE?

A child should be evaluated immediately if hip, groin, or knee pain is persistent, worsens with activity, or causes limping. Limited hip movement or outward turning of the leg during walking requires urgent assessment. Early diagnosis of slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) prevents further slippage and reduces the risk of long-term joint damage.

Is surgery always required for SCFE?

Surgery is required in all confirmed cases of SCFE to stabilise the slipped femoral head and prevent further displacement. The procedure involves placing a screw across the growth plate to secure the bone. Non-surgical treatment does not prevent progression, making surgical intervention necessary to preserve hip function and alignment.

How is SCFE diagnosed in hospitals?

SCFE is diagnosed through clinical examination and imaging studies. Doctors assess hip movement, gait, and pain patterns. X-rays of the pelvis and hips confirm the position of the femoral head and detect slippage. Early imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis and planning of timely surgical management.

What is the recovery time after SCFE surgery?

Recovery after SCFE surgery involves restricted weight-bearing for several weeks followed by gradual rehabilitation. Most children resume normal daily activities within 3 to 6 months. Regular follow-up is required to monitor healing, ensure proper hip alignment, and assess growth plate stability during recovery.

Where can I find expert pediatric orthopedic care?

Expert care for SCFE is available at hospitals with specialised pediatric orthopaedic services. These centres provide access to trained surgeons, imaging facilities, and rehabilitation programs. Choosing a facility with experience in managing growth-related hip disorders ensures accurate diagnosis, timely surgery, and structured follow-up care for optimal outcomes.