Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) or hip dysplasia is a condition that can occur where the hip joint does not develop properly.
The hip joint is primarily made up of two bony structures. The femur (thigh bone) and the acetabulum (pelvis).
The hip is traditionally known as a “ball and socket” joint in which the top of the femur (ball) sits snugly into the cup-shaped acetabulum (socket). In DDH, an error occurs with the development of the acetabulum, or socket aspect of the joint. It is typically too shallow which therefore affects this “snug” fit.
As a result, the femur (ball) can tend to partially come out of the socket (sulux) or in severe cases completely dislocate.
DDH most commonly tends to affect:
- Girls
- First born
- Breech presentation
- Positive family history (mother, father or sibling)
- Multiple births
How is It Picked Up??
The screening for DDH in Ireland has improved dramatically in recent years. Screening now initially occurs at your newborn baby checks while still in hospital but it is also monitored for at your public health nurse checks.
Sometimes there can be very few symptoms so things to watch for would be:
- one leg longer than the other
- Unable to move one leg out to the side as easily during nappy changes
- Uneven skin folds
- Dragging one leg when crawling
- Limping or waddling when walking
Early detection is key and so if you have any concerns about the development of your baby’s hips please do not hesitate to get in touch with your Public Health Nurse, GP or Paediatric Physiotherapist.
