Transient Synovitis in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Transient synovitis is irritation and swelling of the lining of the hip joint. It occurs most often in boys between the ages of 4 and 10 years. It's also called toxic synovitis.

This problem may happen after a child has a cold or a respiratory infection. Or it can happen after an illness with a fever, like tonsillitis or an ear infection. In some cases, it happens after an injury.

Your child will feel pain in the hip. There may also be thigh or knee pain. Sometimes this pain can cause a limp when the child walks.

You can help your child feel better with home treatment. The pain will probably improve in a couple of days. But it may take a few weeks for your child to return to normal.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for pain. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.
• Be careful when giving your child over-the-counter cold or flu medicines and Tylenol at the same time. Many of these medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Read the labels to make sure that you are not giving your child more than the recommended dose.
• Limit activities that put weight on the hip. After the pain goes away, your child can do normal activities.