The rare occurrence of the upper growth end, or epiphysis, of the femur (thigh bone) shifting out of place typically affects children between the ages of 11 and 13. This condition is more prevalent among boys and overweight children. It also exhibits a familial tendency, often seen across multiple family members.
During typical growth, the epiphysis is divided from the bone’s shaft by a layer of cartilage, which is relatively fragile. Consequently, a fall or any other kind of trauma can displace the epiphysis. When such displacement occurs, it results in the development of a limp, accompanied by pain in the knee or groin. The leg often rotates outward, and hip mobility becomes limited.
Surgical intervention is required to reposition the epiphysis accurately, a procedure that usually yields complete success. However, there may be instances where the opposite hip also needs stabilization. It should be noted that post-injury and subsequent repair, the affected hip generally becomes more prone to osteoarthritis than usual.