What physical exam findings are commonly noted in a patient with suspected SCFE?

In patients with suspected Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE), one of the hallmark physical exam findings is indeed the loss of abduction and internal rotation of the hip. SCFE occurs when the femoral head slips from its normal position on the neck of the femur due to displacement, often seen in adolescents during periods of growth. This slippage affects the mechanics of the hip joint, leading to restricted movement in certain directions.

When assessing a patient with SCFE, the clinician will frequently note that passive range of motion is reduced, particularly in hip abduction and internal rotation. This is significant because these movements are essential for normal hip function and their absence can indicate underlying pathology.

While pain in the knee, pronounced limp, and flat foot deformity might be associated with other orthopedic or musculoskeletal issues, they are not defining features of SCFE. Knee pain, while common in SCFE due to referred pain from the hip, does not provide objective evidence of the condition itself. A pronounced limp can result from various hip issues but is not as specific to SCFE as the loss of abduction and internal rotation. Flat foot deformity is unrelated to SCFE and typically pertains more to conditions affecting the foot rather than the hip joint.