Transient Synovitis: How to Care for Your Child
While transient synovitis can be uncomfortable, the pain usually goes away within 7–10 days.
Transient synovitis (sin-uh-VEYE-tis) is a temporary inflammation of the hip that usually does not cause any long-term problems. Some health care providers call it "toxic synovitis."
Health care providers believe transient synovitis is related to a viral infection. It can cause pain in one or both hips, but some kids feel the pain in the knee or thigh instead.
Kids with transient synovitis may limp when they walk, or even refuse to walk. Infants may crawl abnormally and cry more than usual, especially when their hip joints are moved (such as during diaper changes). Even though they might be uncomfortable and may have a low-grade fever, kids with transient synovitis still usually look well.
Transient synovitis usually goes away on its own in 7–10 days, but can last several weeks.
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If your child is uncomfortable, a medication may help your child feel better:
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For children under 6 months, you may give acetaminophen.
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For children over 6 months, you may give acetaminophen OR ibuprofen, if recommended by your health care provider.
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It can help for your child to rest while recovering.
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Your child can return to walking or crawling as soon as he or she feels comfortable enough to do so.
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Your child can return to all other normal activities when the pain is completely gone and there is no limp.
Your child:
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Has a fever above 101°F (38.3°C).
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Has pain that gets worse or is not controlled by medicine.
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Develops pain in other joints.
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Still has pain after 10 days.
