Developmental Dysplasia Of The HipSymptoms of developmental dysplasia of the hipDevelopmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is not usually painful, so many parents do not realise their baby has it. DDH is often found during the newborn physical examination. If it's not found early there are some symptoms you may notice in your baby, such as:
Symptoms in older children and adultsSometimes the symptoms of DDH do not start until late childhood, puberty or adulthood. This can happen if the condition is mild and it's not found and treated at birth. Symptoms typically include:
See a GP if:
Causes of developmental dysplasia of the hipThe leg bone of babies with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) does not fit properly into the space in their hip bone. This means the joint becomes looser and does not move properly. It can affect 1 or both hips. It's not clear why DDH happens, but there's a higher chance of your baby having it if:
How developmental dysplasia of the hip is diagnosedIf a healthcare professional thinks your baby has developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), they will refer you to a doctor who specialises in bone problems (an orthopaedic surgeon). DDH is diagnosed in babies using an ultrasound scan of their hip. Scanning may be recommended if your baby is more likely to have DDH, but does not have any symptoms. Older children and adults with suspected hip dysplasia are diagnosed by taking X-rays of their hips. This is because older bones show up more clearly on an X-ray than on an ultrasound. Treatments for developmental dysplasia of the hipDevelopmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) can sometimes get better by itself, but most babies need treatment. The most common treatment involves your baby wearing a soft fabric harness (Pavlik harness) that helps gently guide their hip joint into the right position. The harness will be fitted by a healthcare professional and your baby will need to wear it for 6 to 12 weeks, depending on how severe their DDH is. It needs to be left on, even during nappy changes and bathing your baby. The hospital will give you advice about how to do this. Babies can be restless after the harness is fitted, but most get used to it after 2 to 3 days. Your baby will have several scans to make sure the treatment is working. The harness will also be adjusted by staff as your baby grows. Other treatmentsIf the Pavlik harness does not work or your baby is older, they may need to wear a plastic and foam brace. This is called a rigid abduction brace. Rarely, surgery may be needed to adjust the position of the hip joint so it fits and works better. A temporary cast is placed around the hip joint to help it heal in the correct position. This is only done if DDH is severe, or if a harness or brace has not worked. Sometimes surgery is also used to treat hip problems in older children and adults. Help and support for developmental dysplasia of the hipYou may find it helpful to get support from other parents and carers with a child who has developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). There is also a charity that offers information and support. Steps Charity WorldwideSteps Charity Worldwide offers help and support for anyone affected by childhood lower limb conditions, including DDH.
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