What is it?
Hip dysplasia means the hip bone is not developed or aligned properly within the joint socket.
Hip dysplasia isn’t always present at birth, hence the name developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Statistics show that in Australia 1 in 6 full-term newborns have some hip instability. Therefore regular screening tests and checks are recommended for all infants.
What are the risk factors for developing hip dysplasia?
There are some factors that can predispose a baby to develop hip dysplasia such as:
Female
First born
Family history of hip dysplasia (genetics)
Breech position in utero (find out about our webster technique here)
Neuromuscular or connective tissue disorder associated with DDH
Inappropriate swaddling
What are the signs & symptoms?
Some signs you may notice with your baby at home include:
“Click” when moving hip or leg during nappy changes
Uneven thigh creases/fat folds
Uneven buttocks creases
Legs are difficult to spread apart
Limping when walking
Avoiding weight bearing
Walking on tippy toes on one side
Torticollis, plagiocephaly and metatarsus adductus
Every child should have their hips checked at birth, 4 weeks, 6-8 weeks, 6-9 months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years and 3.5 years of age.
If left undiagnosed, it is one of the leading causes of early-onset arthritis of the hip later in life.
"Statistics show that in Australia 1 in 6 full-term newborns have some hip instability."
Things you can do to prevent DDH?
There are some risk factors we can’t change for babies, but there are some we can alter, for example swaddling techniques.
For newborns and babies it is recommended to avoid tight swaddling around the hip joints. When swaddling babies legs should be bent at the knee and turned out (frog position). Many parents are now opting for sleeping bags which are much easier to use and ensure baby’s legs are separated at the knees. When using sleeping bags please refer to the sids website for safe use and advice.
When using baby carriers, wide based carriers that support the bum and legs are important. Babies bottoms and legs should make a “M” type shape/position. Avoid using baby slings and carriers that bring the legs together at the knees, instead allow the legs to hang or straddle your torso.
Types of treatment for DDH?
The severity of DDH in an infant will determine the type of treatment offered. DDH severity is usually determined by an ultrasound (<6 months old) or radiograph (>6 months old) referred by your health practitioner. Treatment options can include:
Conservative treatments (mild-moderate cases)
Harness or brace
Surgical (moderate-severe cases)
Some very mild cases in newborns may only require monitoring and follow up ultrasounds, but this will be discussed with you by your health practitioner.
How can we help?
At The Myéline Clinic, our chiropractors can accurately assess and test for developmental dysplasia of the hip at your baby’s appointments and help co-manage baby’s development and alignment.
If your baby already has a harness or brace as part of their treatment plan for DDH you may want an assessment and advice on how to make baby more comfortable during this time.
For more information please contact our clinic here.
A great resource for parents is the healthy hips Australia website which can answer any more questions: https://www.healthyhipsaustralia.org.au