Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE)

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE) is a serious hip condition in children and adolescents that can affect mobility and long-term joint health. At Premier Podiatry and Orthopedics, pediatric orthopedic specialist Dr. Sheu provides expert evaluation, treatment, and guidance to help children recover safely and maintain healthy hip development.

Office Hours

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Introduction

SCFE occurs when the top of the thigh bone (femoral head) slips off the growth plate at the hip joint. Early detection is essential to prevent further slippage and protect joint function. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help children return to normal activities while minimizing long-term complications.

What is a SCFE?

A SCFE is a condition in which the growth plate (physis) at the top of the femur becomes weak and the femoral head slips downward and backward. This misalignment can affect hip stability, range of motion, and gait. It most often occurs during periods of rapid growth, typically in early adolescence.

What Are the Causes of SCFE?

SCFE can develop due to a combination of factors, including:

Rapid growth during puberty
Obesity or excess body weight
Hormonal changes that affect the growth plate
Family history of SCFE or hip problems
Endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism

Symptoms of SCFE

SCFE symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly. Parents and caregivers may notice:

Limping or altered gait
Hip, thigh, or knee pain
Limited range of motion in the hip
Outward rotation of the leg when walking
Sudden inability to bear weight on the affected leg in severe cases

Treatments for SCFE

Treatment is essential to prevent further slippage and protect hip function. Approaches may include:

Surgical stabilization with screws to prevent additional slippage
Activity modification to reduce hip stress before and after surgery
Physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility
Ongoing monitoring to ensure proper growth and hip development
Surgical reconstruction to correct a post-SCFE deformity.

At Premier Podiatry and Orthopedics, Dr. Sheu provides individualized recovery and rehabilitation plans designed to support healing, mobility, and long-term hip health.

Personalized Pediatric Hip Care

Every child’s SCFE is unique, so personalized care is essential. Dr. Sheu works closely with families to create tailored treatment and follow-up plans that ensure safety, recovery, and optimal hip function. Families receive guidance, ongoing support, and expert recommendations throughout the care process.

References

Aronsson DD, Loder RT, Breur GJ, Weinstein SL. Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: Current Concepts. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2006;14(12):666-679. doi:10.5435/00124635-200611000-00010.

Mathew SE, Larson AN. Natural History of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis. J Pediatr Orthop. 2019;39(Issue 6, Supplement 1 Suppl 1):S23-S27. doi:10.1097/BPO.0000000000001369.

Wenger DR, Bomar JD. Acute, Unstable, Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: Is There a Role for in Situ Fixation? J Pediatr Orthop. 2014;34 Suppl 1:S11-S17. doi:10.1097/BPO.0000000000000295.

Thawrani DP, Feldman DS, Sala DA. Current Practice in the Management of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis. J Pediatr Orthop. 2016;36(3):e27-e37. doi:10.1097/BPO.0000000000000496.