Developmental Hip Dysplasia and The Journey to Happy Hips

We understand that hearing your baby has been diagnosed with developmental hip dysplasia (DDH) can be a difficult and emotional experience. However, it’s important to remember that with early detection and the right care, most babies go on to lead healthy, active lives. In this post, we’ve shared the signs to look for, like uneven leg lengths or limited movement, and explained why acting early is so crucial for your baby’s well-being. At POBAR, we’re here to offer compassionate, personalized support every step of the way, helping you feel reassured and confident as we work together toward your baby’s bright future.

Hearing the words “developmental hip dysplasia” for the first time can feel absolutely overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that with the right care, your baby can go on to develop healthy hips and lead an active life.

At POBAR, we’re here to provide the support and guidance you need during this journey, offering treatment options tailored to your baby’s specific needs.

We understand that this can be a stressful time, but rest assured that early intervention is key to helping your baby grow strong and healthy.

If you’re noticing signs that your baby may have DDH, or if you’ve just received a diagnosis, it’s completely normal to have questions. In this post, we’ll walk you through the signs of DDH, why early treatment is so important, and what you can expect when it comes to treatment options that can help your baby’s hips develop properly.

What Is Developmental Hip Dysplasia, and How Does It Affect My Baby?

Developmental hip dysplasia happens when a baby’s hip joint doesn’t develop properly. The ball of the femur (thigh bone) doesn’t fit securely into the socket of the hip, which can lead to problems with walking and movement as they grow.

The good news is that DDH is treatable, especially when caught early. Most babies with this condition will grow up without issues, but getting the right treatment early is key. So, what should you look for, and how do you know if your baby has DDH? Let’s dive into that.

Signs and Symptoms of DDH in Infants

DDH can be challenging to spot, especially in infants who haven’t yet started walking, but being aware of a few signs can help you catch it early:

• Uneven leg lengths: One leg may appear slightly shorter or positioned differently than the other.
• Limited movement on one side: Your baby may have difficulty moving one leg as freely as the other.
• Hip clicking or popping sounds: You might hear a clicking noise when your baby moves their legs, which could indicate misalignment.
• Asymmetrical skin folds: Check if the skin folds on your baby’s thighs appear uneven—this can sometimes be a subtle sign of DDH.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for an evaluation. Early diagnosis is important for getting the right treatment and ensuring the best possible outcome.

Starting the Journey – Why Early Treatment Matters
Taking action early makes a significant difference when it comes to DDH. Here’s why:

• Preventing long-term complications: If left untreated, DDH can lead to future problems like arthritis, hip pain, or difficulty walking.
• Better results: Babies’ bones are more flexible, which means early treatment can help the hip joint develop properly.
• Gentler treatments: The earlier DDH is diagnosed, the more likely it is that your baby will respond well to non-invasive treatments, like a simple brace or harness.

Early intervention can offer the best chance for your baby to develop healthy hips and avoid more complicated treatments later on.

Treatment Options for DDH
Once diagnosed, there are several treatment options available to help guide your baby’s hips into the correct position:

• The Pavlik Harness: For infants under six months, the Pavlik harness is a commonly used treatment. It gently holds the hips in the proper position while allowing the joint to grow and develop naturally. Most babies tolerate the harness well, and many parents see improvement within a few weeks.
• Braces or casts: If the Pavlik harness isn’t effective, or if your baby’s DDH is more severe, a more rigid brace or cast may be used to keep the hips in place.
• Surgery: In rare cases, when non-invasive treatments aren’t successful, surgery may be necessary to realign the hip joint. This is usually a consideration for older infants or toddlers.

We will work with you to determine the best approach based on your baby’s unique situation.

How We Support Your Baby at POBAR

At POBAR, our priority is to ensure your baby receives the best possible care in a supportive, compassionate environment. Here’s what you can expect from us:

• Accurate diagnosis: We start with imaging, such as an ultrasound or X-rays, to gain a clear understanding of your baby’s hip development.
• Personalized treatment plan: We’ll discuss the best treatment options, whether that’s a Pavlik harness, a brace, or another solution.
• Ongoing support: We’ll follow your baby’s progress closely, adjusting the treatment as needed and offering advice on how to care for them at home.

We’re here to guide you through every step of the journey, providing comfort and clarity along the way.

Supporting Your Baby at Home During Treatment

Once your baby begins treatment, there are a few things you can do to help them during this time:

• Follow the treatment instructions: Whether it’s wearing a harness or a brace, it’s important to follow your doctor’s guidance to ensure the best results.
• Monitor for skin irritation: Check your baby’s skin regularly for any signs of irritation, especially if they’re wearing a brace or harness. Let us know if you notice anything concerning.
• Encourage gentle movement: Even if your baby’s leg movement is limited, it’s still important to give them tummy time and help them build upper body strength.

By being consistent and attentive to your baby’s needs, you’re helping them get closer to a healthy future.

A Continuous Journey – Here for You Every Step of the Way at POBAR

We understand that caring for a baby with DDH can be emotionally challenging, but with the right treatment and a caring team, most babies go on to live healthy, active lives. At POBAR, we’re here to offer the expertise, support, and reassurance you need to make this journey as smooth as possible for both you and your little one.

If you suspect your baby might have DDH, or if you’ve already received a diagnosis, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let’s work together to ensure your baby’s hips develop properly.

FAQ

How can I tell if my baby has developmental hip dysplasia?
Look for signs like uneven leg lengths, limited movement on one side, or clicking sounds in the hip. If you notice any of these, we recommend scheduling an evaluation with your pediatrician.

Can DDH be treated without surgery?
Yes! Many babies respond well to non-surgical treatments like braces or the Pavlik harness. Surgery is generally only considered if other treatments are unsuccessful.

How long will my baby need to wear a harness or brace?
The duration varies, but most babies wear a harness or brace for six to twelve weeks, depending on the severity of the condition.

What happens if DDH isn’t treated?
Untreated DDH can lead to arthritis, hip pain, or difficulty with movement as your child grows. Early intervention is key to preventing these long-term issues.