A conservative approach towards idiopathic chondrolysis of hip: a case report

Abstract

Chondrolysis of the hip causes pain and a limping as articular cartilage space is gradually lost due to an unknown but suspected inflammatory process. It could be idiopathic or due to another hip condition, such as slipped capital femoral epiphysis. It is a well-known complication of a slipped capital femoral epiphysis, although it can also occur as a result of trauma, septic arthritis, immobilization, or juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip is a disorder that causes the articular cartilage of the hip joint to degrade spontaneously. The most common clinical manifestation is pain at the affected hip joint, which is linked to increasing joint stiffness and a significant loss of range of motion and function. Idiopathic chondrolysis of hip is a rare condition with Incidence around 8.2% percent. In this case report we are presenting a 12-year-old boy came with complaint of pain, stiffness and restricted range of movement at left hip joint followed by trauma. On the basis of physical and investigatory findings, the patient was diagnosed as a case of idiopathic chondrolysis of hip associated with avascular necrosis grade 4 according to Ficat and Arlet classification. Radiological findings were evident of reduced joint space of left hip and slipped capital epiphysis, this is known to be the hallmark finding to confirm the diagnosis of idiopathic chondrolysis of hip. The patient was conservatively managed with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, vigorous physiotherapy. Chrondolysis is usually managed with bed rest, traction and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hence the aim of this case report was to incorporate an elaborate and efficiency of physical Therapy along with medical management to promote the recovery, aid early return to activities of daily living and improve quality of life.