Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) pertains to a condition that occurs as a result of underdeveloped hip joint.
When cases of DDH were assessed, it was found out that all of them have something in common: their socket is shallow which makes it difficult for the thighbone to fit in it firmly. The looseness in the joint can vary from one child to another.
Patients with DDH may have their thighbone completely out of the socket, lie within the socket but can easily be pushed out with movement or during examination, or is simply loose in the socket. In mild cases of DDH, the doctor can easily move the thighbone without causing dislocation.
In the United States alone, about 1 or 2 babies in every 1,000 are born with this condition. DDH can be diagnosed during examination after birth or during follow up checkups.
Risk Factors
While it’s usually seen at birth, DDH may also develop during one’s first year in life. There are some kids who are at higher risk of developing DDH after birth. They are those whose legs are wrapped tightly with the hips. Hence, it’s important for parents to know how to swaddle their kids properly especially that improper swaddling can lead to developmental dysplasia of the hip.
It also turns out that DDH run in families. It is usually common among girls, first-born children, babies born in breech position, and those whose mothers had oligohydraminos or low levels of amniotic fluid.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Kids with DDH often exhibit the following signs and symptoms:
â— Uneven leg lengths
â— Uneven skin folds on the thigh
â— Lack of mobility or flexibility on one side
â— Duck-like gait
When DDH is suspected, it’s highly recommended to see a doctor for further examination. Before diagnosis of DDH will be made, the doctor will more likely conduct a thorough physical examination which may include listening and feeling for a particular sound when the hip is placed in different positions. X-ray of the hip may be recommended too in order to have a full view of the hip joint.
Does it have a cure?
There is treatment for developmental dysplasia of the hip. Treatment depends on when it is detected. When it is diagnosed at birth, the condition can be corrected using a harness or brace. A soft device such as the Pavlik harness may be recommended to be worn for 1 to 2 months to keep the baby’s thighbone in the socket. The purpose of this brace is to keep the hip joint in its proper position while still allowing movement. If this device can’t keep the hip in its proper place, the doctor may recommend a firmer brace to do the job.
Treatment for DDH for babies beyond 5 months may be a bit more complicated. It may require casting, closed reduction procedure, or for older kids, an open surgery in order to realign the hip.
