Acute onset of painful inflammation typically in the hip, characterized by pain, limping, joint effusion, and limited range of motion. Commonly found in young children (ages 3-8) with a limp. Painful groin, thigh, and knee may be referred from the hip, with or without low-grade fever. Affected patients are generally still able to bear weight. May be associated with recent upper respiratory tract infection or other viral illness. Also called toxic synovitis, its similarity to septic arthritis (pediatric emergency) necessitates careful differentiation. Once septic arthritis is ruled out, the short course (approximately 7-14 days) of transient synovitis is generally benign and self-limiting.

Management includes rest and anti-inflammatory therapies.