There are many orthopedic conditions seen in people, and one of them is hip dysplasia. It is the abnormality of the hip joint where the socket does not completely cover the ball portion. When this occurs, the chance of joint dislocation increases. In other words, this is the condition where the thigh bone femur does not fit with the pelvis as it does in healthy individuals.
Hip dysplasia could either occur at the time of birth or during early life stages. Girl child and firstborn child are more prone to getting hip dysplasia than the boys and second ones respectively. Any of the hips could get hip dysplasia, but the left one is most commonly affected. Studies have found that this condition does not show any symptoms in children less than a year old, whereas a slight difference between the leg lengths may be noticed. If the condition is left untreated, arthritis or lower back pain may be on the cards.
Severe cases of hip dysplasia may require surgical intervention, and for that, you might also require orthopedic devices. To get international standard quality implants, find reliable orthopedic instruments suppliers.
What Are the Causes of Hip Dysplasia?
The hip joint is a type of ball and socket joint that connects the femur to the pelvis. In the case of hip dysplasia, the connection between the curved socket and femoral head does not line up properly. In certain cases, it is seen that the socket is not proper enough to get hold of the femoral head properly in place. There could be multiple causes of this condition; most people are born with hip dysplasia. This condition could occur by birth if the position of the fetus in the womb puts pressure on the hips. In some cases, the condition could be genetic.
The condition where the baby is born with hip dysplasia is known as congenital hip dislocation or dysplasia of the hip. Some of the factors that may reduce the space in the womb include:
- First pregnancy
- Big size baby
- Breech presentation
What Are the Symptoms Associated with Hip Dysplasia?
Some of the common signs & symptoms that will be noticed in the case of hip dysplasia include:
- Pain in the hips
- Unstable hip joint
- Limping while walking
- Differences in leg lengths
How is the Condition Diagnosed?
Physical examination is always the first step for the diagnosis of various health conditions, and hence, similar is the case with the diagnosis of hip dysplasia. The doctor will first notice any differences in the leg lengths and then painful areas & movements. The doctor might also perform a physical examination after the baby grows two years old. This is because symptoms might not show up in a newborn.
To confirm the diagnosis in children 6 months or older, imaging tests like X-ray, ultrasound or CT scan may be performed. These tests help the doctor see the affected hip joint and decide the best treatment procedure for that.
How is Hip Dysplasia Treated?
Depending upon the severity of the condition, hip dysplasia can be treated in multiple ways. It doesn’t matter which treatment method is being used, the goal will be to relieve symptoms like pain and prevent the hip joint from further damage. The treatment options may include:
Braces
A harness or a brace will be used in children under 6 months old to keep the joint in place as the child grows.
Physical Therapy
Depending upon the condition, physical therapy may also be suggested by the doctor to improve flexibility and strengthen the joint.
Surgery
Surgery like arthroscopy or periacetabular osteotomy may also be performed in severe cases. Sometimes total hip replacement surgery is required.
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