Hip dysplasia. What is it? Can babies and adults have hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is assessed for in every baby when they see a Paediatric Osteopath or their Maternal Child Health Nurse.  This assessment takes place when they are of newborn age through to approximately 8-10 weeks.

What is being assessed is weather the ball of the hip joint sits correctly in the socket of the hip.  As a newborn, this joint is not fully developed so when the tests called ‘Ortolani and Barlow’ tests are performed we are looking for any signs of dislocation or subluxation.  We also look at the folds on the upper leg / hip region to make sure both sides have the same amount folds, the thickness of folds are equal both sides and that the folds are in the same position on both thighs.

Why?  We screen for hip dysplasia in newborns because this is the age where we can have the greatest influence on newborn hips, aiming to avoid any surgery correction now or in the future as an adult.

My son has a positive Ortolani test and extra hip creases.  What now?  Generally, your health professional will refer you for an ultrasound (via the GP) to see how the hips are maturing and if there is any sign of the ball not sitting in the correct location to the socket.  If the ultrasound shows signs of hip dysplasia, then most babies will be referred for a splint such as a Pavlik Harness.

My health professional said my child’s folds are uneven, but the tests do not indicate that there is any hip dysplasia.  Most health professionals would still send your baby for an ultrasound to err on the side of caution.  If the results are negative, that is where a Paediatric Osteopath can further assess bub for any tension in around hips, pelvis and back that maybe causing the folds to be uneven aiming for the baby to continue to reach all their milestones.

If you are concerned about your baby’s hips or uneven hip folds, please feel free to contact Osteo for Families and book in to see our Paediatric Osteopath for a thorough assessment 0416 161 411 or osteo4families.com.au.

Photo 1- Compliments to Rebecca Biggs

Photo 2- Compliments to https://www.orthobullets.com/pediatrics/4118/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip-ddh