General Information About Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the instability, looseness, or complete dislocation of the ball-shaped bone (femoral head) forming the hip joint from its socket (acetabulum) while in the womb or shortly after birth.
Babies with a family history of hip dysplasia, those in a breech position in the womb, first-born females, and multiple pregnancies (twins) are at a higher risk.
A discrepancy in the baby's leg lengths, asymmetrical skin creases (folds) on the legs, and the inability to fully open the hips to the side (limitation) when changing diapers are the most important warning signs.
Yes. Tightly wrapping the baby's legs straight out (traditional tight swaddling) hinders natural joint development and can even cause a healthy hip to dislocate from its socket.
Because treatment is much easier in the first few months, it is mandatory for all babies to undergo a routine Hip Ultrasonography between their 1st and 2nd month of life, regardless of whether there are physical symptoms.
When diagnosed in the early stage (first 6 months), the hip is corrected 100% without surgery using a special strap system called a 'Pavlik harness' that holds the baby's legs in a frog-like position. For children diagnosed at an older age, casting or surgical intervention is required.
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