Hip dysplasia

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint and consists of two parts: a femoral head and a hip socket. A well-developed hip joint has a rounded, deep socket that covers the femoral head well. Hip dysplasia is a developmental disorder in which the hip socket is not deep enough.

What happens in hip dysplasia?

Because the hip socket is not deep enough, the femoral head can move more easily in the joint. This is called hip subluxation, or partial dislocation of the hip. It is even possible for the femoral head to come completely out of the socket. In that case, we speak of hip luxation.

What is the cause of hip dysplasia?

The cause of hip dysplasia is unclear. It is a congenital abnormality of the hip and is very likely a combination of laxity of the ligaments and the position of the hip in the uterus and after birth. It is known that heredity plays a role in hip dysplasia.

Hip dysplasia occurs in about one to two percent of children and four times more often in girls than in boys. It is therefore one of the most common developmental disorders. In addition, research has shown that the condition occurs 30 to 50% more often in children who are born by cesarean section or in breech presentation.

How can hip dysplasia be recognized?

At the first visit to a child health clinic, babies are always examined for hip dysplasia. The main focus points during this inspection are the ability to spread the legs, leg length difference, and the presence of an extra buttock crease.

Other common signs that may indicate hip dysplasia are pain and stiffness of the hip as a result of subluxation of the hip. In additional tests, ultrasound or an X-ray can support the diagnosis.

How is hip dysplasia treated?

Treatment is mainly aimed at improving the position of the femoral head in relation to the socket. This can be done using a brace, splint, or other positioning aid. The treatment prevents future joint problems.

If hip dysplasia is not treated, it can lead to early wear and tear of the hip. Timely recognition and treatment of hip dysplasia is therefore necessary and, in most cases, gives a good result.

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