Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip Treatment

Are my baby's hips healthy?

​If your child has been diagnosed with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip, an experienced pediatric physiotherapist at Active Solution Physiotherapy will develop a treatment plan specifically for your your child.

WHAT IS IT?

DDH is abnormal development or growth of the hip joint (which includes the femoral head and the Acetabulum) which causes the hip joint to come out of its socket either before or shortly after birth. DDH is more common in girls than boys, due to the female hormones involved in pregnancy. 
 
Some signs and symptoms that your child may have SCFES include:

Asymmetrical thigh folds (due to one limb being shorter)

Decreased opening of hip (of affected side)

Knees at different levels (when both hips and knees are flexed side by side)

FACTORS RISK

Small womb size

Breech position during the last 4 weeks of pregnancy

Children with family history of hip dysplasia

Positioning of baby after birth (ie. keeping legs together in carrier)

HOW CAN PHYSIO HELP?

0 - 6 months old: If the hip can be relocated into its socket, then a Pavlik harness is used to maintain the hip bone centered in its socket, it restricts movement to the back and to the outside, but allows movements in the other directions. Physiotherapy can help ensure your child is as active as possible to develop motor skills while wearing the harness. 


6 - 24 months old: Throughout this period a doctor may try to relocate the hip under general anesthesia, without surgery, followed by application of a hip cast. If this fails to maintain the hip in its socket, then surgery may be necessary to relocate the hip. Physiotherapy can be beneficial after casting or after surgery to regain movement and strength in the hip so that your child can continue to explore their surroundings and discover their motor abilities.

​> 18 months old: After 18 months a surgical approach is an option to relocate the hip. Physiotherapy after a surgical intervention is important for your child to regain movement and strength in their hip in order to return to full participation in their activities.

Treatment Options

Clinics

​Song, Kit M MD, Staheli, Lynn T MD. (2007). Pediatric Orthopaedic Secrets, 3rd edition. Philadelphia: Elsevier Inc.

Campbell, S. Vander Linden, D. Palisano, R. (2006). Physical Therapy for Children, 3rd edition. St. Louis: Elsevier Inc.
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