What is a common presenting symptom of SCFE in children?

A common presenting symptom of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE) in children is unilateral hip pain. SCFE typically occurs during periods of rapid growth and is characterized by displacement of the femoral head due to slippage at the growth plate.

Children may present with hip pain that is often localized to one side, which can be mistaken for other conditions, such as hip flexor strains or even referred pain from the knee. This unilateral pain can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by decreased range of motion in the affected hip. Considering the age group in which SCFE commonly occurs (typically adolescents), the onset of pain is often insidious, and parents may note that the child complains of discomfort intermittently.

While bilateral hip pain can occur in some instances, it is less common, as SCFE usually affects one hip more than the other. Knee swelling may also be present but is not a primary symptom of SCFE; it can occur due to referred pain from the hip. Lastly, back stiffness is not relevant in the context of SCFE, as this condition primarily involves the hip joint. Therefore, unilateral hip pain stands out as the most characteristic symptom for SCFE in children.