WashU Medicine Orthopedics

Iliac Apophysitis

What is iliac apophysitis?
Is a temporary condition of the iliac crest and pelvis characterized by inflammation of the growth plate, and occasionally the muscle will pull the bone away from the growth plate.

Fast facts:

Occurs in skeletally immature patients between the ages of 12 and 18.
Higher risk for those with “tight” hip and thigh muscles.
The pelvic bone has many apophyses and any of these maybe affected. However apophysitis of the anterior superior iliac spine, anterior inferior iliac spine and iliac crest apophyses is more common.

Symptoms:

A slightly swollen, warm and tender area along the iliac crest.
Pain with activity especially running, jumping, kicking, and twisting, such as that seen with batting or pitching in baseball.
Usually starts slowly and gradually worsens.

Treatment:

Relative rest ( avoiding the activity that causes the problem)
Ice to be applied for 10 to 15 minutes every 2 to 3 hours for inflammation and immediately after activities that cause symptoms.
Over the counter pain relievers such as NSAIDS
Topical ointments
Exercises/stretching routine and possibly physical therapy

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