Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis Treatment in Montreal
If your child has been diagnosed with a Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis,  an experienced pediatric physiotherapist at Active Solution Physiotherapy Verdun will develop treatment specifically for your child. Call now to book your appointment: (514) 767-6858.

What is a Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE)?

SCFE is a fracture at the growth plate in the hip between the head and neck of the long thigh bone called the femur.  This causes slippage of the shaft of the femur away from its head.  It is the most common hip problem in adolescents, occurring mostly during the adolescent growth spurt, from age 9 to 16.  It's more common in boys than girls.

What is the cause of a SCFE?

The exact cause of SCFE is unclear.  In rare cases, it may result from a trauma, however, most children do not remember a specific traumatic event.  It is more likely that the slippage occurs as a result of forces involved during regular movement, such as walking and running.  Other possible causes include hormone and kidney disorders, or structural/chemical abnormalities in the growth plates.

What are some risk factors of developing a SCFE?

  • Obesity
  • Hormonal imbalance

What are some signs and symptoms that your child may have a SCFE?

  • Walking with a limp
  • Pain in hip, groin, thigh, or knee
  • Limited hip movements (ie. foot and knee tends point outwards, difficulty pointing toes inwards)

How can physiotherapy help if my adolescent has a SCFE?

If you observe signs or symptoms you suspect to be abnormal in your child, an evaluation by a pediatric physiotherapists at Active Solution Physiotherapy Verdun can help identify the condition.  The primary goal of treatment is to stop further slippage and it is most effectively treated by surgical intervention.  Physiotherapy is important after surgery to regain strength and hip mobility in order to return to full participation in activities.

Read about the other pediatric conditions that our clinic treats.​

Physiotherapist

Make an appointment now for your child with our pediatric physiotherapists in Montreal (Verdun): ​(514) 767-6858 or fill in the form on our Contact Us page if you would like us to call you.
References:
Song, Kit M MD, Staheli, Lynn T MD. (2007). Pediatric Orthopaedic Secrets, 3rd edition. Philadelphia: Elsevier Inc.
Campbell, S. Vander Linden, D. Palisano, R. (2006). Physical Therapy for Children, 3rd edition. St. Louis: Elsevier Inc.